Lahore tops global pollution rankings as AQI hits 285

Lahore’s air pollution has increased, with the city topping the list of the world’s most polluted cities with air quality levels in several regions reaching worrisome levels.

According to the Swiss-based air quality monitoring organization IQAir, Lahore is the most polluted city in the world with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 238. Meanwhile, a report from Punjab Air Quality Index said the city’s AQI was 285 at 6am, a huge jump from 229 at the same time a day before.

According to the global ranking by IQAir, New Delhi in India was the second most polluted city with an AQI of 214, followed by Hanoi in Vietnam at 188 and Baghdad in Iraq at 169. Karachi was placed at fifth position with AQI of 166.

According to the Punjab Air Quality Index data, Lahore showed huge variations in pollution levels with some areas showing exceptionally high readings.

Shahdara recorded an AQI of 500, indicating an extreme level of pollution. The AQI was recorded at 366 near Wagah border, 335 on Multan Road and 306 on Barki Road.

The measurements reveal that residents in many parts of the city are breathing exceptionally poor quality air, causing alarm about the potential health impacts of long-term exposure to the polluted air.

Air pollution can irritate the eyes, make people cough and create respiratory problems, especially if they spend a lot of time outdoors. Children, the elderly and those with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular disorders are most susceptible to its effects.

General health recommendation is to stay indoors unless it is necessary to be outside when pollution levels are extremely high, and to avoid vigorous physical exertion in open areas. People who have to go out should consider using an appropriate protective mask.

Children, older adults and persons with respiratory ailments are recommended to take extra precautions since exposure to severely polluted air may aggravate existing health problems.