Lahore became the world’s most polluted city on Wednesday as air quality hit a hazardous AQI of 403. Dense smog covered major roads, including Kahna Nau, GT Road, and Egerton Road. Local authorities reported peak AQI readings reaching 500 in some areas. Citizens faced severe breathing difficulties, especially schoolchildren and the elderly. Experts warned that prolonged exposure could cause serious health problems.
Other areas of Lahore also recorded dangerous pollution levels. Shahdara measured 391, DHA Phase 6 at 371, Burki Road at 361, Multan Road at 344, and Safari Park at 339. Even Punjab University saw AQI at 303, while Wahga Border remained relatively cleaner at 176. Officials said early morning traffic and falling temperatures contributed to the surge. The Environmental Protection Agency forecasted AQI could rise to 345 by late evening.
Read more: Lahore becomes world’s most-polluted city
Punjab’s other cities also faced poor air quality. Sargodha recorded 344, Faisalabad 296, Multan 287, Gujranwala 274, Kasur 257, and Sheikhupura 245. Dera Ghazi Khan measured 217, Sialkot 162, Bahawalpur 154, and Rawalpindi 130. Experts noted that widespread vehicular emissions, stubble burning, dust, and open waste fires caused the sharp rise in pollution.
Historical data show Lahore’s October and November months consistently see high AQI levels. From 2022 to 2025, the city never recorded a single day with “good” air quality. Annual averages remained high, ranging from 117 to 184, highlighting a persistent public health threat. Seasonal spikes, especially during colder mornings, worsen particulate pollution.
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Deputy Director Ali Ejaz urged citizens to take precautions. He recommended wearing masks, avoiding waste burning, and maintaining vehicles properly. Authorities stressed that lasting improvement requires strict enforcement and public cooperation. Without coordinated action, Lahore’s air quality is likely to stay hazardous for the foreseeable future.