Lahore Tops Global Pollution Ranking as AQI Hits 410

Lahore was ranked the world’s most polluted major city on October 23 after its overall Air Quality Index reached a hazardous 410 on IQAir. Local monitoring reports showed even more severe conditions, with AQI reaching 627 in Allama Iqbal Town and 587 on Barki Road. Residents reported eye irritation, throat discomfort and breathing difficulties as dry weather and limited wind trapped pollutants over the city. Children, elderly people and patients with respiratory or heart conditions were identified as the most vulnerable groups. Health guidance recommends avoiding unnecessary outdoor activity, keeping windows closed and wearing a well-fitted protective mask when going outside. The Meteorological Department forecast the possibility of light rain and stronger winds in Lahore and several Punjab districts, which may temporarily reduce pollution levels. However, AQI readings change rapidly by time, location and monitoring platform; the official Punjab EPA dashboard recorded Lahore’s AQI at 159 at noon on October 24, compared with a weekly peak of 419 on October 23.