Karachi’s air quality deteriorated further on Saturday evening, with pollution levels rising across most monitored areas and several districts entering the “Unhealthy” category.
Data recorded at 5:50pm showed elevated concentrations of PM2.5 particles, indicating a steady worsening of air conditions compared to the previous day.
Mauripur reported an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 150, while North Nazimabad stood at 135.
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University Road recorded 153, placing it firmly in the “Unhealthy” range. Gulshan-e-Iqbal Block 14 emerged as one of the worst-affected areas, registering an AQI of 163.
Other parts of the city also faced poor air quality. Malir recorded 161, Gulistan-e-Johar 163, and Shahrah-e-Faisal 158, showing that unhealthy air has spread across Karachi.
DHA Phase 5 also remained under concerning conditions as pollution levels continued to rise.
The situation is expected to worsen in the coming days.
The three-day air quality forecast shows an AQI of 147 on February 1, followed by a sharp increase to 204 on February 2, pushing Karachi into the “Very Unhealthy” category.
Levels are forecast to remain high on February 3, with an AQI of 193.
Yasir Husain, director of the Climate Action Center in Karachi, described the city’s air as stagnant and heavily polluted.
Darya attributed the worsening air quality to the large number of petrol- and diesel-powered vehicles on Karachi’s roads, along with dust from ongoing construction activities across major areas.
He 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.
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.
