Lahore’s air is back in the danger zone, hitting a “hazardous” AQI of 532 on Tuesday — the first time in nearly three weeks. Despite partial lockdowns and anti-smog efforts, the city’s fight against toxic air seems far from over.
With over 14 million people calling Lahore home, the air quality crisis keeps getting worse every year. Blame it on cold weather, traffic emissions, and crop burning across the border in India. Pakistani officials often point fingers at stubble burning in neighboring regions, saying it adds fuel to Lahore’s smog troubles.
According to IQAir, Lahore ranked as the second most polluted city in the world, just behind New Delhi, which saw its AQI skyrocket to a jaw-dropping 800 by mid-morning. After a short break since November 28, thick smog is back, blanketing the city as winter settles in.
It’s not just Lahore feeling the heat (or haze) — Karachi isn’t far behind. On Tuesday, the coastal city reported an AQI of 200, putting it in the “unhealthy” range. The pollution struggle is clearly a national one, with clean air becoming a year-round luxury.
Efforts like restricting industries and vehicle emissions haven’t been enough, leaving residents bracing for yet another season of suffocating smog.
Health experts are raising red flags: exposure to hazardous air can trigger breathing problems, heart diseases, and long-term health issues. Vulnerable groups — kids, the elderly, and those with health conditions — are at even greater risk.