Lahore ranked as the world’s most polluted major city on Friday, recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 344, as doctors urged residents to wear masks and limit exposure to hazardous air pollution.

Data recorded at around 8am by Swiss air quality monitoring platform IQAir placed Lahore at the top of its global ranking. The platform classified the city’s air quality as hazardous.

IQAir identified fine particulate matter, known as PM2.5, as the main pollutant. Its concentration stood at 57 times the World Health Organisation’s annual guideline, according to the reported data.

These tiny particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream. Exposure can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, lung cancer and chronic respiratory illnesses.

Delhi Ranks Second Among Most Polluted Cities

India’s capital, Delhi, ranked second among the world’s most polluted major cities, with an AQI of 244. IQAir classified its air quality as very unhealthy.

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Dakar in Senegal recorded an AQI of 184. Meanwhile, India’s Mumbai and Kolkata registered readings of 179 and 172, respectively. All three cities fell into the unhealthy category.

The readings highlighted the continuing air pollution challenges facing major cities across South Asia and other regions.

Iqbal Town Records Lahore’s Highest AQI

Pollution levels varied sharply across Lahore, with Iqbal Town recording the city’s highest AQI of 535.

Airwash on Bedian Road followed with a reading of 497, while Kahna recorded 446 and Defence Phase 5 reached 360.

Model Town registered an AQI of 350. Meanwhile, Barki Road recorded a comparatively lower reading of 253.

These local readings indicate significant differences in pollution levels across the city. Residents should check current readings for their immediate areas because conditions can change throughout the day.

Seasonal Conditions Worsen Smog

Cooler seasonal conditions can trap pollutants close to the ground, allowing smog to build up. Traffic emissions, industrial fumes, construction dust and smoke from crop-residue burning can all contribute to poor air quality.

Delhi also frequently experiences severe seasonal smog. Authorities have often linked the problem to crop-stubble burning in neighbouring agricultural areas, including Punjab and Haryana.

Weather conditions can further affect how pollutants disperse, making air quality particularly dangerous when emissions accumulate near ground level.

Air Pollution Poses Serious Health Risks

Children face particular risks from polluted air. UNICEF has warned that exposure can increase their vulnerability to acute respiratory infections.

A 2023 study also found that air pollution can reduce life expectancy by more than five years in some parts of South Asia.

Across the region, severe smog regularly disrupts daily activities. It can prompt school closures, slow transport and place additional pressure on healthcare services.

Doctors advise residents to reduce prolonged outdoor exposure during periods of severe pollution. Well-fitting particulate-filtering masks, such as N95 or equivalent respirators, can help reduce exposure when worn correctly. People with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, older adults and children should take particular care.

Residents should also monitor official air quality updates and follow local health advisories as pollution levels fluctuate.