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Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city, earned the dubious distinction of being named the world’s most polluted city on Saturday, according to an air quality index. The Switzerland-based IQAir company’s index revealed that the southern port city has an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 241, categorized as ‘very unhealthy.’ The main culprit for the deteriorating air quality in Karachi is PM2.5, with its concentration currently at 38.1 times the World Health Organization’s annual air quality guideline value.
Lahore, the provincial capital of Punjab, secured the second spot as the world’s most polluted city with an AQI of 214. Following closely, New Delhi, the capital city of India, ranked third with an AQI of 196. In response to the escalating air pollution crisis, Punjab, Pakistan’s largest region, has implemented temporary smart lockdowns in ten districts, including Lahore, Nankana Sahib, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot, Narowal, Hafizabad, and Mandi Bahauddin.
Read more : Ten Punjab Districts Under Lockdown To Reduce Smog
These lockdowns aim to curb toxic smog levels by closing commercial activities and restricting movement. The government’s measures include limitations on movement and economic activities in the affected districts, closure of schools and universities, and the reopening of markets, gyms, and cinemas permitted only after 3 pm. The northeastern region of Pakistan is also grappling with pollution, as long queues of vehicles block city arteries. Individuals with respiratory conditions are advised to take special precautions due to the hazardous air quality in Lahore and surrounding areas.
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