LAHORE: The provincial metropolis continued to top the charts as the most polluted city in the world.

On Dec 27, 2023, the city’s air quality index (AQI) reached a hazardous level of 512, surpassing the previous records and posing serious health risks to its residents.

The AQI is a standard that indicates the quality of air and the impact it may have on health. An AQI level above 300 is considered hazardous, and Lahore’s AQI of 512 is a clear indication of the severity of the situation.

The city’s air quality has been deteriorating over the past week, with different areas experiencing even worse air quality.

The AQI levels in different areas of the city were even higher than the average. The worst affected areas were CERP Office 821, FAST University Lahore 768, Syed Maratib Ali Road 764, Fida Hussain House 736, Aitchison College 589, Phase 8 Ivy Green 586, WWF-Pakistan 521, DHA Phase-8 519, and Pakistan Engineering Services (Pvt) Ltd. 509 and Shahrah-i-Quaid-i-Azam 505.

The main pollutant contributing to the poor air quality is PM2.5, fine particulate matter that can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, causing severe health issues.

Residents are advised to avoid outdoor activities and close windows to prevent exposure to the polluted air. The use of air purifiers and masks is also recommended when venturing outdoors.

The government and environmental agencies are urged to take immediate action to address this escalating issue.

The continuous exposure to such high levels of pollutants can lead to long-term health problems for the city’s residents, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

The situation in Lahore underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to combat air pollution, not just in Lahore, but in cities around the world facing similar challenges.

The city continued to grapple with this environmental crisis.

Published in Dawn, December 28th, 2023