LAHORE, Feb 22 (APP): The city recorded an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 162, placing it in the unhealthy category and indicating deteriorating air conditions that may affect public health. Medical experts warn that exposure to such pollution levels can trigger breathing problems, throat irritation, and aggravate asthma and heart-related conditions, particularly among children, the elderly, and other vulnerable groups.
Data further showed that the concentration of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) was approximately 14.2 times higher than the annual guideline value recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). These microscopic pollutants, primarily generated by vehicle emissions, industrial activities, construction dust, and other urban sources, can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, posing serious long-term health risks.