Air pollution in Lahore worsened sharply on Thursday, October 29, placing the provincial capital at the top of the world’s most polluted cities ranking, according to reported air quality readings.
The city’s overall Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 299, while pollution levels in several neighbourhoods exceeded 400 and even 500, posing serious health risks to residents.
The highest reading was recorded at the CERP Office, where the AQI climbed to 585, followed by Allama Iqbal Town at 416.
Other monitoring locations also reported elevated pollution levels, including Air Watch Pakistan at 318, ARC Lahore at 310, Cantonment at 295, Model Town at 281, Bedian Road at 278 and DHA Phase 5 at 270.
Burki Road, Paragon City and Askari 10 were also among the areas experiencing severe air pollution.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, no rainfall is expected in Lahore on Thursday, reducing the likelihood of immediate relief from the prevailing smog.
The temperature was recorded at 22°C, with a forecast maximum of 31°C and minimum of 17°C.
Wind speeds remained low at approximately 2 kilometres per hour, while humidity stood at 61 per cent. Such conditions can contribute to the accumulation of airborne pollutants.
Air quality readings above 200 are classified as very unhealthy, while levels exceeding 300 fall within the hazardous category, making prolonged outdoor exposure particularly concerning for children, older people and individuals with respiratory conditions.