Lahore Tops World Pollution Chart as AQI Soars Above 250

LAHORE – The city of Lahore has once again topped the list of the world’s most polluted cities, recording an alarming Air Quality Index (AQI) of 253. Despite multiple measures taken by the Punjab government to control smog and pollution, the air quality in the provincial capital remains hazardous.

According to global air quality monitoring data, Lahore was ranked first, followed closely by New Delhi with an AQI of 252, while Karachi stood fifth with 181. Experts say the recent Diwali celebrations in India significantly increased pollution levels, and the resulting smog spread across the border, worsening air quality in several cities of Punjab, including Lahore.

The Punjab government, led by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, has been implementing various steps to combat smog, including anti-smog squads, restrictions on industrial emissions, and the use of water sprinklers on roads. Officials claim these measures have prevented the situation from becoming more severe.

Maryam Nawaz has directed all departments to take strict and immediate action to reduce smog levels, emphasizing the importance of protecting public health. However, environmental experts continue to warn that long-term planning is essential to address root causes such as vehicle emissions, crop burning, and industrial pollution.

Residents of Lahore have been urged to limit outdoor activities, wear masks, and use air purifiers indoors as air quality continues to fluctuate between “very unhealthy” and “hazardous.”

In other news read more about Pakistan to Get Two New Submarine Cable Systems Soon

Below is the list of the world’s top ten most polluted cities based on AQI rankings:

The persistent smog problem has once again raised urgent questions about urban pollution control and the effectiveness of existing environmental policies in Lahore and other major South Asian cities.