Pakistan has officially ranked as the third most polluted country in the world, with air quality levels reaching alarming limits across major cities.
According to recent environmental reports, the national Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 164, marking a hazardous rise in toxic particles in the atmosphere.
Faisalabad has been declared the most polluted city in the country, where the AQI has soared to an alarming 685, putting public health at severe risk. Lahore is also facing a dangerous situation, recording an AQI of 603, while Gujranwala followed closely behind with 555.
Experts say the thick blanket of smog, combined with dust and industrial emissions, has engulfed much of Punjab, reducing visibility and worsening air conditions.
Environmental specialists have warned that air pollution could worsen in the coming days due to stagnant weather and unchecked emissions. They have urged citizens to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities, especially during early morning and evening hours when smog concentration is higher. Doctors have also reported a rise in respiratory and eye-related illnesses caused by the toxic air.
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Medical experts are advising people to wear protective masks, keep windows closed and prevent children and the elderly from prolonged exposure to outdoor air. They further stressed that industrial waste, smoke from vehicles and urban noise pollution remain the leading contributors to the deteriorating environment.
