Overview
- Global monitors place Lahore second worldwide for pollution as localized AQI spikes reach 855, with experts noting provincial sensors cap at 500 and may understate exposure.
- Citywide AQI readings hit 455, with hotspots reported at Ravi Road 855, the Punjab University vicinity 742, Model Town 682 and Sanda Road 618.
- Hazardous air extends across Punjab, with Bahawalpur at 620, Multan 571, Faisalabad 418 and Gujranwala 340.
- Measured PM2.5 in Lahore averaged about 262 micrograms per cubic metre, which is more than 17 times the World Health Organization’s 24‑hour guideline.
- Clinicians cite vehicle and industrial emissions, crop‑residue burning and stagnant winter air as key drivers, while officials report only marginal improvement despite fines, stubble‑burning cases, sealed units and intermittent school closures.