Lahore has been named the most polluted city in the world, while Karachi ranks fifth, as per the latest Air Quality Index (AQI) data.
Lahore registered a hazardous particulate matter (PM) level of 298, followed by New Delhi at 247, and Karachi at 173, raising significant concerns about public health in Pakistan’s urban centers.
The high PM levels, driven by smog, particularly in winter, have led to a surge in respiratory illnesses and other health issues.
Punjab recorded over 52,000 respiratory cases in a single day, with Lahore contributing more than 3,000.
In response to the worsening air quality, the Punjab government has eased certain restrictions, allowing construction work in Lahore, Gujranwala, Multan, and Faisalabad.
Heavy traffic remains restricted from entering these districts on weekends, and markets must close by 8 pm. Restaurants can operate until 10 pm, but barbecue services must use hood systems to reduce emissions.
Despite these measures, the health crisis persists, Lahore alone reported 34,000 respiratory cases last week and 131,000 cases in the past month.
Asthma, cardiac diseases, strokes, and eye infections have also shown alarming spikes across Punjab, reflecting the urgent need for sustainable solutions to combat pollution.
The government continues to monitor air quality while balancing economic and public health challenges.
