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LAHORE, Nov 07 (APP): Air pollution levels have surged to alarming levels across Pakistan’s major cities, with Lahore and Karachi among the most affected as South Asia continues to grapple with severe environmental degradation.
According to the latest Air Quality Index (AQI) report, Lahore has been ranked the second most polluted city in the world, while Karachi stands at fourth place. The air quality in both cities has been declared “hazardous” to human health.
In Lahore, the AQI recorded 291 particulate meters — a level considered extremely dangerous. Environmental experts warned that the intensity of smog in the city is steadily increasing, triggering a rise in respiratory infections, throat irritation, and eye diseases among residents.
The Environment Department has urged citizens to stay indoors whenever possible and to wear protective masks when going outside. Experts also emphasized the need for urgent measures to control emissions from vehicles, industries, and crop residue burning, which are key contributors to the worsening air quality.
Meanwhile, in Qabula Sharif, heavy smog has enveloped the city, mainly due to black smoke emitted from brick kilns and factories. Local residents reported breathing difficulties and a sharp rise in eye and respiratory illnesses.
Citizens expressed concern over what they termed as the Environment Department’s inadequate response, calling for immediate and effective action to curb pollution and protect public health.
Officials said monitoring teams have been directed to intensify inspections and ensure strict implementation of anti-smog regulations across Punjab.