Karachi is experiencing dangerously high levels of air pollution, with PM2.5 concentrations rising across major towns and districts of the city.
Recent measurements indicate that several locations are recording particulate matter levels far above the safe limits recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).
According to the latest data, areas such as the Urban Resource Center in Jamshed Town reported the highest PM2.5 concentration at 317 µg/m³, followed by Aman Khan in Kaka Khail, North Nazimabad Town at 304 µg/m³, and the Orangi Pilot Project in SITE Town at 272 µg/m³.
These levels are considered extremely hazardous and pose serious health risks to residents, particularly children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions.
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Other notable readings include NED Main Campus in Gulshan-e-Iqbal Town at 261 µg/m³, Asif Gulistan-e-Johar at 220 µg/m³, and the University of Karachi’s Institute of Space Science and Technology at 198 µg/m³. Jamshed Town also recorded elevated levels at Climate Action Center (193 µg/m³), Karachi Zoo (177 µg/m³), and Urban Unit Karachi (173 µg/m³).
Even areas previously considered less polluted, such as Solid Waste Management in Keamari Town, G3 Engineering Consultants in Karachi District, and DG House DHA 5 in Saddar Town, recorded PM2.5 levels ranging from 121 to 157 µg/m³, indicating a city-wide environmental concern.
Experts warn that prolonged exposure to these hazardous levels of fine particulate matter can lead to severe respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses.
This news report is produced in collaboration with Climate Action Center Karachi.
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.
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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.
