Lahore tops global pollution rankings as AQI hits hazardous levels

Lahore ranked as the world’s most polluted major city on Friday morning, with its air quality reaching hazardous levels, according to Swiss air quality monitoring platform IQAir.

IQAir’s live tracker recorded the city’s air quality index (AQI) at 410 at one point on Friday morning, placing it in the “hazardous” category.

India’s New Delhi ranked second with an AQI of 203, followed by Senegal’s Dakar at 196.

Physicians advised Lahore residents to wear masks outdoors to reduce exposure to air pollution. IQAir also recommended avoiding outdoor exercise, keeping windows closed and using indoor air purifiers.

The platform identified fine particulate matter, known as PM2.5, as the city’s primary pollutant. Its concentration was reported at 45.2 times the World Health Organisation’s annual guideline value.

PM2.5 consists of tiny airborne particles measuring 2.5 micrometres or less in diameter. These particles can penetrate deep into the lungs, while prolonged exposure can increase the risk of serious health problems.

Air pollution has become a major environmental and public health concern in Pakistan, particularly in Lahore during the winter smog season. Vehicle emissions, industrial pollution, crop-residue burning and weather conditions that limit the dispersal of pollutants contribute to the problem.

Lahore was the only Pakistani city among the world’s 20 most polluted cities listed on Friday morning, while Karachi recorded an AQI of 110 on the platform’s broader list.

IQAir’s rankings reflect live readings that can fluctuate throughout the day.