Lahore is facing an escalating air pollution crisis, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching dangerously high levels, posing a serious threat to public health and daily life. The city continues to rank among the most polluted urban areas in the world, with the situation showing no signs of improvement, even at night.
Recent reports indicate that Lahore is now the second most polluted city globally, with the AQI surging to an alarming 365, categorized as “hazardous air quality.” This severe pollution is particularly dangerous for the city’s 14.4 million residents, with vulnerable groups—children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions—at significant risk.
The air quality in different parts of the city has reached hazardous levels. At Bhatta Chowk, a major intersection, the AQI peaked at 491, far exceeding the threshold for severe health warnings. In the bustling commercial and residential area of Gulberg, the AQI recorded 400. Both figures are well above the safe limits, highlighting the growing concern over air pollution in Lahore.
The toxic smog and hazardous air quality are largely attributed to a combination of factors, including heavy vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, and seasonal crop burning in nearby agricultural areas. These factors contribute to the thick haze that envelops the city, making the air difficult to breathe and severely reducing visibility.
The health risks posed by this level of air pollution are staggering. Respiratory illnesses, heart problems, and other health complications are on the rise, placing additional strain on the city’s healthcare system. The pollution also has significant economic consequences, leading to increased medical expenses, decreased worker productivity, and a lower quality of life for Lahore’s residents.
Additionally, schools and outdoor activities have been disrupted due to the poor air quality. Schools have had to shut down for days, and outdoor events have been cancelled, further affecting the routine of the city’s residents.
As Lahore continues to battle this air pollution crisis, experts and residents are urging the government to implement immediate measures to tackle the root causes, including stricter regulations on emissions, better waste management, and curbing seasonal crop burning. Without swift intervention, the air quality is likely to deteriorate further, with long-term consequences for both public health and the economy.
