Deadly smog turns Multan into most polluted city

Multan has emerged as the most polluted city in Pakistan, according to the latest air quality index. Toxic winds from India have contributed to the city’s rising pollution levels, with the air quality score reaching a worrying 700, making it the most affected city in the country.

The new smog and air pollution chart reveals that Lahore ranks second with a score of 467, followed by Peshawar at third with a score of 392.

Rawalpindi comes fourth with a score of 254, while Islamabad is in fifth place with a score of 228. Other cities on the list include Haripur with a score of 193, Abbottabad at seventh with 171, and Karachi ranked eighth with a score of 83.

Punjab’s Senior Minister, Maryam Aurangzeb, has urged citizens to take precautions. She advised people in the most affected cities to avoid going outdoors, and, if they must, to wear masks for protection.

She emphasised that air pollution has become a serious issue not just for individual cities or provinces but for Pakistan and the wider region as a whole.