As winter approaches, air pollution in Karachi is worsening, with PM2.5 levels rising dangerously across several towns, posing increasing health risks for residents citywide.
Recent measurements highlight concerning figures, signaling urgent attention is needed to protect public health and environment.
In Keamari Town, solid waste management issues contribute to PM2.5 reaching 154 micrograms per cubic meter, indicating unhealthy air quality.
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Saddar Town is also severely affected, with DG House DHA 5 showing PM2.5 levels of 156 and Zafar Memon DHA registering 154. NED University’s City Campus recorded the highest in the area at 169.
Jamshed Town is experiencing similar pollution trends. Karachi Zoo and Climate Action Center measured 155 and 157 PM2.5, respectively.
Urban Unit Karachi and Urban Resource Center reported 155 and 162, highlighting a citywide environmental concern.
Gulshan-e-Iqbal Town houses several educational institutions facing air quality issues. Agha Khan University IED measured 157 PM2.5, while its Main Campus showed 152. NED Main Campus registered 154, and University of Karachi’s Space Science Institute recorded 148.
SITE Town’s Orangi Pilot Project faces 155 PM2.5, demonstrating that industrial and urban development are contributing factors. Meanwhile, North Nazimabad Town’s Aman Khan area reached 161, highlighting the pollution’s expansive reach across districts.
Malir District’s Engr Muzaffar Sir area recorded 151 PM2.5, emphasizing that air pollution affects not only central urban hubs but also peripheral neighborhoods. Citizens are urged to take precautions immediately.
Experts warn that prolonged exposure to PM2.5 levels above 150 can trigger serious respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. Authorities are called to implement stricter regulations on emissions and waste management.
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
