Lahore: According to the latest data from the Environmental Monitoring Service, Pakistan has now topped the list of the most polluted countries in the world in terms of air pollution, while India is in second place.
According to the report, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Lahore was recorded at 304, which has been declared a very dangerous level for human health. According to global standards, an AQI of more than 300 is considered in the “severely hazardous to health” category.
At the same time, air pollution is also reaching dangerous levels in the Indian capital New Delhi and the industrial city of Faisalabad in Pakistan, where the Air Quality Index was recorded at 221.
Environmental experts say that an air quality index of more than 302 significantly increases the risks of respiratory problems, asthma, eye irritation and heart diseases. According to them, the intensity of pollution is likely to increase further in the coming days due to burning of crop residues, vehicle fumes, factory emissions and dry weather.
Experts have advised citizens to take precautions, avoid unnecessary outings and use masks to protect themselves from the effects of polluted air.
| City | AQI | Category | Short Health Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lahore, Pakistan | 304 | Hazardous | Everyone may experience serious health effects. Avoid all outdoor exertion; wear a high quality mask if you must go outside. |
| New Delhi, India | 221 | Very Unhealthy | Health alert: everyone may experience more serious symptoms. Limit outdoor activities and sensitive groups should avoid prolonged exposure. |
| Faisalabad, Pakistan | 221 | Very Unhealthy | Health alert: everyone may experience more serious symptoms. Reduce outdoor time and use masks or air purifiers where possible. |
