Karachi is grappling with hazardous air quality, ranking third globally in pollution levels today, December 2. The city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded a particulate matter (PM) level of 192, which is considered harmful. Lahore tops the list with 287 PM, followed by New Delhi at 254 PM, while Mumbai stands fourth at 174 PM. According to the AQI scale, pollution levels between 151 and 200 are harmful, while levels above 201 are increasingly dangerous.
The worsening air quality in Karachi coincides with a significant drop in temperature, with the minimum temperature falling to 17°C. Cool winds from Balochistan are expected to bring even colder nights, and by Tuesday, the city may experience stronger winds and further temperature declines, with highs ranging between 29°C and 31°C.
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Meanwhile, a survey conducted in Lahore revealed that 82% of young residents support stricter air pollution monitoring, particularly for vehicles and factories. The survey also highlighted that smog in Lahore is primarily caused by vehicular emissions, with 88% of respondents advocating for the relocation of factories away from residential areas. The report emphasized that both government measures and public action play a vital role in managing the city’s air quality.