LAHORE (Dunya News) – Karachi and Lahore are among the top 10 most polluted major cities in the world, according to the global air quality monitoring organization IQAir.
Karachi ranked third most polluted city of the world with an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 181 on Wednesday morning while Lahore was 10th with an AQI of 149. Kolkata, India topped the list with AQI of 245 and Dubai, United Arab Emirates was second with an AQI of 227.
Health experts have urged residents to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities and to wear protective masks when going outside, warning that prolonged exposure could lead to respiratory and cardiovascular issues.
Due to the increasing smog, respiratory diseases are spreading across Punjab, with hospitals witnessing a surge in patients suffering from throat, chest, and nasal infections—especially among children.