Karachi’s air presented a mixed picture, with some areas clean while others remain hazardous. The forecast, however, warns of a sharp deterioration in the coming days.
According to the latest readings recorded at 7:15 PM on March 9, 2026, multiple areas reported moderate to unhealthy AQI levels.
University Road recorded the worst air at 145, which is “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups.” North Nazimabad followed at 123, also in this cautionary range for vulnerable people.
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On the other hand, Shahra-e-Faisal reported an excellent AQI of 72, classified as “Moderate” and safe. DHA Phase 5 and Gulshan-e-Iqbal also showed reasonably clean air.
The three-day forecast, however, raises serious air quality concerns for the immediate future. Predictions show a dramatic spike from 92 on Wednesday to 166 on Thursday.
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If this forecast holds, Karachi will plunge back into the “Unhealthy” zone affecting all residents. Such a rapid deterioration would erase the gains seen in cleaner areas.
Air Quality Forecast for Karachi
The short-term forecast suggests that pollution levels may continue to rise slightly in the coming days.
- March 10: AQI expected around 92
- March 11: AQI may increase to 153
- March 12: AQI could reach 166
Environmental analysts say weather patterns, traffic congestion, and industrial emissions play a major role in Karachi’s fluctuating air quality.
Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city, frequently experiences air pollution during the winter and early spring months. Factors such as heavy traffic, construction dust, industrial emissions, and limited green cover contribute to deteriorating air quality.
Environmental experts have repeatedly called for stricter emission controls and better urban planning to improve the city’s air conditions.
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.
