Lahore tops world pollution rankings

AQI hits 302 despite mild weather

LAHORE:

Residents of Lahore began the day with mild temperatures and a touch of early-morning coolness, but the brief weather comfort stood in contrast to dangerously high air pollution levels across the city.

The provincial capital recorded a morning temperature of 19 degrees Celsius, with humidity at 57 per cent and light winds blowing at around five kilometres per hour, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department.

Despite the stable and dry weather, Lahore was ranked the most polluted city in the world, with its Air Quality Index recorded at 302 — a level classified as hazardous. Environmental experts warned that prolonged exposure at such levels can pose serious health risks, particularly for children, the elderly and people with respiratory or cardiac conditions. Health authorities advised citizens to avoid unnecessary outdoor movement, especially during peak pollution hours, and recommended the use of face masks to limit exposure to polluted air.

Weather conditions across most of Punjab were expected to remain dry, with similar patterns forecast nationwide. According to the Met Office, continental air continues to prevail over much of the country, while hilly areas are likely to experience colder conditions during morning and night hours.

In central and southern districts of Punjab, daytime temperatures are expected to remain above normal.

Over the past 24 hours, weather remained dry in most regions, with colder conditions reported in mountainous areas.