LAHORE – Pakistan has surpassed all other countries to top the global pollution ranking, with Lahore now declared the world’s most polluted city, environmental experts reported on Friday.
According to air quality monitoring data, Lahore’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 304, a level considered extremely hazardous to human health.
India’s capital New Delhi and Pakistan’s Faisalabad also recorded dangerous AQI levels of 221, indicating severe air pollution in both regions.
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Experts warned that an AQI above 302 can lead to serious health risks, including respiratory infections, heart problems, and other chronic diseases.
They attributed the worsening air quality to crop burning, vehicle emissions, and industrial pollution, noting that conditions may deteriorate further in the coming days.
Authorities have advised citizens to limit outdoor activities, wear protective masks, and keep windows closed to minimize exposure.
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Meanwhile, the Environmental Protection Department has intensified its crackdown on factories and smoke-emitting vehicles, while the Lahore district administration continues efforts to control smog through stricter monitoring and fines.