Islamabad, Nov 23: Lahore Reigns as the Most Polluted City in the World Once Again. With dangerous levels recorded on Friday, Lahore has regained its ranking as the world’s most polluted city on the Air Quality Index (AQI), following a brief improvement in air quality.
Following a brief decrease in pollution, the Punjab government recently reopened markets and educational facilities; however, the city’s AQI increased once more, hitting 502 in the early morning. Some locations, such Sunder Industrial Estate and Polo Ground Cantt, reported concerning AQI levels of 583 and 736, respectively.
Pollutants including PM2.5, PM10, nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and ozone (O3) are measured by the AQI. Levels over 300 are considered dangerous and pose serious health hazards. More and more residents are complaining of overall discomfort, itchy eyes, and trouble breathing.
Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb announced intensified efforts to combat pollution. Over 1,250 vehicles were inspected, and 128 emitting excessive smoke were seized. Trucks carrying construction debris face strict checks at key city entry points, including Thokar Niaz Beg and Badami Bagh.
The Environmental Protection Agency, in collaboration with police, is cracking down on high-emission vehicles, industrial units, and other violators. Green Lockdown Areas have been introduced for targeted pollution control measures like wet sweeping and water sprinkling. The minister asked people to cooperate with authorities and use masks. “This is a matter of life and death,” she emphasized, underscoring the government’s unwavering commitment to environmental and public health protection.
