Pakistan's Air Pollution Crisis: City Records 1600 AQI, Becomes World's Most Polluted

Pakistan's Air Pollution Crisis: City Records 1600 AQI, Becomes World's Most Polluted

Northern India is facing severe air pollution, but Pakistan is dealing with even worse conditions. This November, Pakistan recorded the world’s highest air quality index (AQI). In one of the worst cases globally, Lahore recorded an AQI of almost 1600 on Friday.

According to Swiss air quality monitor IQAir, the CERP Office area in Lahore reached an AQI of 1587 on Friday morning. Four other areas in Lahore, including Syed Maratib Ali Road and Pakistan Engineering Services offices, also recorded AQI levels above 1000. On Thursday, Lahore’s average AQI was around 1300, making it the most polluted city in the world for much of November. Despite efforts by the government, the air quality continues to get worse.

The dangerous pollution has forced the local government to shut schools, parks, and museums until the end of the week. Masks are now mandatory, and offices have been asked to reduce staff. 

Many cities in Pakistan are covered in thick smog, with visibility dropping every day as temperatures fall. In just 24 hours, Lahore reported over 15,000 cases of respiratory and viral infections, according to Ary News.

To fight the smog, the government has introduced several measures, such as a three-month ban on weddings and new rules for transport. Schools and colleges across Punjab have also been closed.

Lahore and Multan are currently the most polluted cities in the world. Every day, more than 70,000 people seek treatment for health problems caused by smog.

The smog is caused by vehicle emissions, industrial and construction work, and burning crops during the winter wheat planting season.