LAHORE: Lahore was ranked the most polluted city in the world, yet again, on Tuesday as hazardous levels of air quality were recorded across multiple areas.

According to IQAir, the city’s air quality index (AQI) reached a maximum of 364 at 6am. The situation showed some improvement by 11am but again climbed to 360 by noon.

By evening, the AQI readings from different parts of the city reflected severe pollution. At 7pm, Allama Iqbal Town recorded 437, the CERP Office 412, Barki Road 338, DHA 322, Barki 318 and Bedian Road 312. The data placed Lahore at the top of the global pollution ranking, underscoring the continuing challenge of smog and poor air quality in the provincial capital.

Environmental experts say that prolonged exposure to such hazardous levels poses serious health risks, particularly for children, the elderly and those with respiratory conditions. The authorities have urged residents to limit outdoor activities and adopt precautionary measures as the city continues to grapple with worsening air quality.

The Met Office forecast cold and dry weather was expected in most districts of the Punjab province. Cold and dry weather is expected in Murree, Galliyat and surrounding areas. While partly cloudy/very cold weather is expected in Kashmir. Moderate to dense fog/smog is likely to persist over Sialkot, Narowal, Lahore, Sheikhupura, Gujranwala, Gujarat, Jhelum, Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Bahawalnagar, Okara, Sahiwal, Multan, Dera Ghazi Khan, Kasur, Khanewal, Khanpur, Kot Addu, Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, Rajanpur and surrounding areas.

Last week, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) had forecast heavy smog and fog across Punjab from Dec 12 to 16 (Tuesday) and urged citizens to adopt precautionary measures.

Published in Dawn, December 17th, 2025