Karachi’s air quality has plummeted to a dangerous level, crossing into the “very unhealthy” category for the first time in a month amid the ongoing pollution crisis in Pakistan. The port city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) value surged to 212 on Saturday morning, making it the third-most polluted city globally according to IQAir rankings.
Karachi’s Deteriorating Air Quality
The concentration of harmful PM2.5 pollutants in Karachi’s atmosphere was recorded as 27.4 times higher than the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended safety levels. Though the AQI later dropped slightly to 194, it remains at an alarmingly high level.
IQAir attributes Karachi’s worsening air quality to factors such as excessive vehicular emissions, factory pollutants, and the burning of waste materials.
Global Pollution Rankings
- New Delhi: The Indian capital retains the top position as the most polluted city globally.
- Lahore: Pakistan’s cultural hub is ranked the second-most polluted city, with an AQI of 298, nearing the “hazardous” category. Lahore has consistently remained among the most polluted cities worldwide for nearly two months, driven by persistent smog and industrial emissions.
The Impact of Smog in Punjab
Punjab continues to suffer from heavy smog during winter. This is caused by emissions from low-grade fuel, industrial activities, and seasonal crop burning, which, combined with cooler temperatures and stagnant winds, trap pollutants close to the ground.
The prolonged exposure to toxic air poses severe health risks, including strokes, heart disease, lung cancer, and respiratory illnesses, as highlighted by WHO.
A Persistent Crisis
Despite periodic fluctuations in AQI levels, cities like Lahore and Karachi continue to grapple with poor air quality. This ongoing crisis demands urgent measures to mitigate pollution sources and protect public health.
