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Lahore Tops Global Pollution Ranking as Smog Crisis Deepens
Lahore remains the world’s most polluted city with an AQI of 341, classified as “hazardous.” Punjab govt launches anti-smog operations as schools revise timings and air quality alerts intensify.
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by Muhammad Hashir
2025-10-29
Lahore Tops Global Pollution Ranking as Smog Crisis Deepens

The Punjab capital once again ranked as the most polluted city in the world on Wednesday, according to global air quality monitor IQAir, as hazardous smog continues to blanket the metropolis.

The city’s Air Quality Index (AQI), which reached a severe level of 422 on Tuesday, slightly dropped to 341 today — still categorised as “hazardous.” The alarming figures kept Lahore ahead of New Delhi (232), Beijing (222), Kinshasa (155), Kathmandu (155), and Karachi (140) in the list of cities with the poorest air quality.

In response to the worsening air conditions, the Punjab government has declared a high alert and announced several emergency measures, including revised school timings across the province, now starting at 8:35am to reduce early-morning exposure to toxic air.

The Lahore Waste Management Company (LWMC) has also intensified its operations, launching a large-scale anti-smog campaign. The initiative involves 16 mechanical washers, 50 regular washers, and over 400 workers dedicated to road washing and water sprinkling in major areas of the city to suppress dust and particulate matter.

Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb lauded Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for her leadership during the ongoing environmental crisis, calling her efforts “a testament to the success of the vision of improving the environment.”

Aurangzeb expressed optimism, saying, “In the coming years, Punjab will see improvements like Beijing,” while noting that government measures have begun to influence the mindset of farmers regarding stubble burning — one of the main causes of smog.

A recent report by the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) revealed an environmental violations score of 294, highlighting persistent issues with industrial emissions and agricultural burning.

“Action is underway against plants causing air pollution,” the minister added, assuring that strict monitoring and penalties will continue as the province intensifies its fight against environmental degradation.

With air quality in the “hazardous” range, health experts have urged residents to stay indoors, wear masks when outside, and avoid strenuous outdoor activity. Lahore’s recurring smog crisis has once again underscored the urgent need for long-term environmental reforms, cleaner energy initiatives, and sustainable urban planning in Pakistan’s most populous province.
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