The air quality in Karachi remained dangerously polluted, continuing a severe public health crisis for its residents as most areas recorded “Unhealthy” air quality levels.
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.
Garden and Gulistan-e-Johar reported the highest readings, at 168 and 156 respectively. This signifies a persistent, city-wide blanket of harmful smog and particulate matter.
Other major zones, including Orangi Town and Shahra-e-Faisal, also showed hazardous conditions. The air quality index (AQI) in these areas consistently breached safe health limits.
The forecast for the next three days predicts no meaningful relief. Air quality is expected to remain within the same dangerous “Unhealthy” band, prolonging exposure risks.
This ongoing public health crisis is driven by PM2.5, fine particles that damage lungs. Prolonged inhalation is linked to asthma, heart disease, and other chronic illnesses.
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The primary pollution sources remain vehicular emissions, industrial discharge, and construction dust. In winter, atmospheric conditions trap these pollutants close to the ground.
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.
