Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari sparked a social media buzz by advising people from smog-hit Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to consider relocating to Karachi for cleaner air.
Taking a jab at the air quality in other provinces, Bilawal shared a real-time Air Quality Index (AQI) ranking from November 12 on his X account, showing cities like Peshawar (591), Multan (573), and Lahore (479) with dangerously high pollution levels.
While Karachi’s AQI was recorded at 78, placing it in the “moderate” range, Bilawal’s suggestion drew mixed reactions online.
A user pointed out that, although lower than other cities, Karachi’s AQI of 79 is still unhealthy, falling within the “Poor” category.
Some netizens pointed out the city’s own challenges, including infrastructure issues, high crime, and water shortages, leading many to question the practicality of his advice. One user even remarked, “Moving to Lahore from Karachi was one of the best decisions I’ve made.”
Some netizens shared funny memes and comments highlighting Karachi’s serious street crime problem.
Meanwhile, Punjab’s air pollution crisis continues to escalate. Lahore recently topped IQAir’s global list of the most polluted cities, ahead of New Delhi and Kinshasa. The UN’s Children’s Fund (Unicef) also raised concerns, highlighting that severe pollution in Punjab threatens the health of millions, particularly over 11 million young children.
