Karachi faces a severe air quality crisis as pollution indexes remain dangerously high. The US AQI readings show most areas are “Unhealthy” or worse today.
North Nazimabad (178) and Gulshan-e-Iqbal (186) recorded the worst air in the city. These “Unhealthy” levels pose serious risks to all residents’ health immediately.
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The forecast offers no relief, predicting hazardous air for the next three days. The city’s pollution is trapped, with no clean air expected until next week.
Orangi Town (172) and Malir (167) also suffer from dangerously polluted air. Sensitive groups like children and the elderly are urged to stay indoors.
Even typically cleaner areas like Clifton (141) now have “Unhealthy” air. This widespread pollution shows the city-wide scale of the current environmental emergency.
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The primary pollutant is fine particulate matter (PM2.5). These microscopic particles penetrate deep into lungs, causing respiratory and cardiovascular health issues for millions.
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.
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.
