Smog crisis deepens across Punjab: Gujranwala tops AQI charts, Lahore close behind

Gujranwala has topped the list of Pakistan’s most polluted cities, followed closely by Lahore and Karachi, as air quality continues to deteriorate across major urban centers.

According to the latest Air Quality Index (AQI) readings, pollution levels in Gujranwala reached a hazardous 379, blanketing the city in thick smog and making it increasingly difficult for residents to breathe.

Industrial zones such as Khyali, Sheikhupura Road, and Wapda Town were among the hardest hit, with air quality falling to extremely unsafe levels.

Lahore, long considered the epicenter of Pakistan’s smog crisis, recorded an AQI of 339, while Karachi registered 206, ranking as the fourth most polluted city globally.

Health experts have urged citizens to wear protective masks, limit outdoor exposure, and take preventive measures against eye, throat, and respiratory irritation caused by the toxic haze.

Pulmonologists warned that prolonged exposure to such high pollution levels can trigger serious respiratory and cardiovascular conditions, heighten cancer risks, and even contribute to premature mortality.

They added that both outdoor and indoor pollution significantly impair lung growth, cognitive performance, and overall life expectancy.

Meanwhile, provincial authorities have launched a sweeping crackdown on polluting factories and individuals violating environmental regulations.

So far, 22 cases have been registered and several arrests made as part of the anti-smog campaign.

Environmental specialists noted that particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations in Gujranwala and Lahore are many times higher than global safety standards, posing serious health risks.

Experts also highlighted that low morning temperatures are trapping polluted particles close to the ground, worsening smog conditions.

To combat the crisis, authorities plan to deploy anti-smog guns in the most affected areas in the coming days.

Meanwhile, Islamabad is expected to experience dry and cold weather, with a minimum temperature of 22°C and a maximum of 28°C, and no rain forecasted over the next 24 hours.

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