Karachi’s air quality worsened on Thursday evening, with Gulistan-e-Johar emerging as the city’s most polluted area, according to the latest Air Quality Index (AQI) readings at 6:30 PM.
The latest data recorded Gulistan-e-Johar at 197 PM2.5, placing it in the “Unhealthy” category and posing health risks to the general population.
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The reading was significantly higher than all other monitored locations across the city.
Among the areas reporting moderate air quality levels, Aram Bagh recorded 80 PM2.5, followed by Shahra-e-Faisal at 72 PM2.5, University Road at 60 PM2.5, and Gulshan-e-Iqbal Block 14 at 53 PM2.5.
Meanwhile, several locations remained in the “Good” category.
Clifton Block 4 recorded 49 PM2.5, Malir posted 39 PM2.5, while DHA Phase 5 remained the cleanest monitored area in Karachi with an AQI reading of 22 PM2.5.
The sharp contrast between Gulistan-e-Johar and the rest of the city highlighted the uneven distribution of air pollution levels across Karachi, with most areas maintaining moderate to good air quality despite the spike in one locality.
The three-day air quality forecast suggests pollution levels will remain within the moderate range but may gradually increase.
AQI is projected at 78 PM2.5 on June 26, 82 PM2.5 on June 27, and 84 PM2.5 on June 28.
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.
