Karachi’s air quality continues to deteriorate as several monitoring stations across the city recorded hazardous PM2.5 levels, raising health concerns for millions of residents.
Fresh data collected from various districts shows PM2.5 concentrations far exceeding safe limits set by both the World Health Organization (WHO) and Pakistan’s National Environmental Quality Standards (NEQS).
The highest reading was reported at NED Main Campus in Gulshan-e-Iqbal Town, where PM2.5 spiked to 171, placing it firmly in the “very unhealthy” category.
Similarly elevated levels were recorded in Malir District (167), NED University City Campus (161), and the Climate Action Center in Jamshed Town (157), indicating widespread pollution across major educational and residential areas.
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In central Karachi, Saddar Town also showed troubling results. PM2.5 concentrations reached 161 at NED City Campus and 127–125 around DHA and nearby zones, signaling that densely populated commercial districts are equally affected.
Other hotspots included Karachi Zoo (138), Urban Resource Center in Jamshed Town (156), and Agha Khan University campuses (151–160), reflecting a consistent pattern of elevated pollution throughout the city.
Even typically less congested neighborhoods such as North Nazimabad (152) and Gulistan-e-Johar (158) reported critically high PM2.5 levels.
How many categories are there to measure Air Quality?
AQI 0–50: Good
The air quality is considered excellent, with minimal or no risk to public health. There are no necessary precautions for the general population.
AQI 51–100: Moderate
Air quality is generally acceptable; however, there may be a slight health concern for a small number of individuals who are unusually sensitive to air pollution. Active children, adults, and people with respiratory conditions like asthma should consider limiting prolonged outdoor activity.
AQI 101–150: Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups
Sensitive individuals, such as those with asthma or other respiratory issues, may begin to experience health effects, although the general population is unlikely to be affected. It is advised that active children, adults, and those with respiratory conditions limit extended outdoor exertion.
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AQI 151–200: Unhealthy
Health effects may begin to affect everyone, with sensitive groups potentially experiencing more serious symptoms. Active children and adults, and people with respiratory illnesses should avoid prolonged outdoor activity, while others—especially children—should reduce outdoor exertion.
AQI 201–300: Very Unhealthy
This range signals emergency-level health warnings. The entire population is more likely to experience adverse health effects. Those with respiratory conditions and active individuals should avoid all outdoor activity, while everyone else, particularly children, should limit time spent outdoors.
AQI 300+: Hazardous
Air quality is extremely poor, posing a serious risk to health for everyone. A health alert is in effect, and all outdoor exertion should be avoided by the entire population.
To stay informed about current Karachi Air Quality, visit TOK Weather Page
