Karachi’s air pollution worsened on December 30 as official readings showed unhealthy conditions across major neighborhoods, according to the Karachi air quality index released during evening monitoring.
Data collected at 6:00pm highlighted elevated particulate matter (PM2.5) levels, with multiple areas crossing unhealthy thresholds, raising concerns for residents, commuters, children, elderly citizens, and people with respiratory conditions.
The PM2.5 data showed Orangi Town at 178, marking the highest reading displayed, placing the area firmly within the unhealthy category on the official scale.
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Garden and Shahrah-e-Faisal each recorded PM2.5 levels of 168, indicating similarly unhealthy air conditions during the same evening observation period as shown on map data.
University Road showed a PM2.5 concentration of 166, while Gulistan-e-Johar registered 164, keeping both locations within the unhealthy range on the provided city map graphic.
Malir was marked with a PM2.5 level of 165, matching readings seen in other eastern parts of Karachi on the same date and time frame.
Mauripur recorded a PM2.5 reading of 157, remaining in the unhealthy category but slightly lower than several central and eastern locations on the map data.
DHA Phase 5 showed a PM2.5 level of 163, while Clifton Block 4 registered 169, reflecting unhealthy air along Karachi’s coastal neighborhoods as per image.
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.
To stay informed about current Karachi Air Quality, visit TOK Weather Page
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.
