Karachi’s air pollution intensified on Friday, with conditions worsening across most monitored districts. One area surged dangerously close to the “Very Unhealthy” threshold.
Data collected at 6:00pm highlighted high particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations across most parts of the city.
DHA Phase 5 recorded the city’s worst air, spiking to a hazardous AQI of 193. This level is just points away from the “Very Unhealthy” category for all residents.
North Nazimabad (137) and Garden (130) also registered “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” conditions. The data shows a clear trend of increasing pollution before the weekend.
The three-day forecast predicts this dangerous trend will continue and even worsen. AQI levels are expected to rise further, potentially crossing into higher risk categories.
This escalation toward “Very Unhealthy” air signals a rapid accumulation of toxins. The atmosphere is losing its capacity to disperse the city’s relentless emissions.
Yasir Darya, director of the Climate Action Center in Karachi, described the city’s air as stagnant and heavily polluted.
He attributed the poor air quality to the high number of petrol- and diesel-powered vehicles and dust particles from widespread construction across main arteries of Karachi.
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He warned that PM 2.5 particles from fossil fuels and construction dust pose serious health risks.
Darya urged all residents, especially minors, to wear face masks when going outdoors to reduce exposure to harmful PM2.5 particles.
This news report is produced in collaboration with Climate Action Center Karachi.
Karachi Air Quality
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.
