Air pollution levels in Lahore have deteriorated sharply, placing the provincial capital at the top of the global ranking of the world’s most polluted cities, with several localities recording alarmingly high Air Quality Index (AQI) readings.
According to Swiss air quality monitoring organisation IQAir, Lahore recorded an AQI of 238, making it the world’s most polluted city at the time of the ranking.
Meanwhile, data released by the Punjab Air Quality Index showed that the city’s AQI had risen to 285 at 6am, compared with 229 at the same time a day earlier.In IQAir’s global ranking, India’s capital New Delhi stood second with an AQI of 214, followed by Vietnam’s Hanoi at 188 and Iraq’s Baghdad at 169.
Karachi ranked fifth on the list, recording an AQI of 166.
The Punjab Air Quality Index report indicated significant variations in pollution levels across Lahore, with some areas experiencing particularly hazardous conditions.
Shahdara recorded the highest AQI reading of 500, while the index stood at 366 near the Wagah border, 335 along Multan Road and 306 on Barki Road.
The elevated readings have raised concerns about the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to polluted air, particularly for residents of the worst-affected localities.
Health experts warn that exposure to high levels of air pollution can cause eye irritation, coughing and breathing difficulties, especially among people spending extended periods outdoors.
Children, elderly people and individuals suffering from respiratory or cardiovascular diseases are particularly vulnerable to the effects of poor air quality.
Residents have been advised to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities during periods of severe pollution and refrain from strenuous physical exertion in open spaces.Those required to venture outdoors have been urged to consider wearing appropriate protective masks to reduce exposure to harmful airborne particles.
Additional precautions have been recommended for children, older adults and people with existing respiratory conditions, as prolonged exposure to heavily polluted air may worsen underlying health problems.
