Lahore: Lahore on Saturday ranked first among the world’s most polluted cities, with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 204, according to air-quality monitoring data.
Air pollution levels remained elevated across several parts of the provincial capital, with particularly high readings reported in a number of residential and suburban areas.
The AQI was recorded at 271 in Paragon City, 227 on Barki Road, 206 in Iqbal Town and 203 in DHA Phase V. Other areas also reported elevated pollution levels, including Model Town at 202, Bedian Road at 189, Chaman Park at 186 and Askari X at 171.
Health experts have advised citizens to take precautionary measures amid the deteriorating air quality, particularly those who are sensitive to air pollution. Residents have been advised to limit unnecessary outdoor exposure and take appropriate precautions when air quality deteriorates.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), Lahore was experiencing warm and humid conditions, with the temperature recorded at around 28°C and the maximum expected to reach 33°C. Humidity stood at 76 per cent, while winds were blowing at around 3 kilometres per hour.
Low wind speeds can contribute to the persistence of pollutants near the ground, particularly when atmospheric conditions limit their dispersion.