Lahore,(The COW News Digital) The Pakistani city of Lahore has emerged as the second most polluted city in the world, according to the latest air quality data, trailing only the Indian capital, New Delhi. Early Friday morning, Lahore recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 439, categorizing its air as “hazardous” and raising serious concerns for public health.
The situation is not limited to Lahore alone. Various districts across Punjab are experiencing dangerously high pollution levels. Industrial hubs and densely populated cities such as Gujranwala and Faisalabad are also grappling with poor air quality. Gujranwala reported particulate matter (PM2.5) levels of 808, while Faisalabad recorded 507. Both readings fall well above the World Health Organization’s recommended safe limits, signaling a severe environmental and health crisis.
Environmental experts point to a combination of factors driving the pollution surge. Vehicular emissions, industrial discharges, crop burning in neighboring regions, and dust from ongoing construction projects are among the primary contributors. Weather conditions, such as low wind speeds and temperature inversions during early mornings, exacerbate the accumulation of pollutants in the air, making cities like Lahore and Faisalabad particularly vulnerable.
Meanwhile, India’s capital New Delhi continues to top the global pollution charts. The city registered an alarming AQI of 519, making its air quality extremely hazardous for residents. Hospitals and health professionals have urged citizens to limit outdoor activities and take preventive measures, particularly vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory issues.
Government authorities in both countries are under pressure to address the environmental crisis. Initiatives such as promoting cleaner fuels, regulating industrial emissions, and encouraging public transport are being discussed. However, experts warn that without immediate and effective intervention, the situation may worsen, particularly during winter months when air pollution tends to spike due to seasonal factors.
The rising pollution levels have sparked widespread concern among citizens, who are demanding urgent measures to protect public health. Environmentalists are also calling for long-term policies to curb emissions and enhance air quality monitoring, emphasizing the importance of sustainable urban planning and stricter enforcement of environmental regulations.
As Lahore and other major cities struggle with the health impacts of polluted air, the crisis underscores the urgent need for collective action from governments, industries, and citizens alike to combat the growing environmental threat.
