According to global environmental monitoring agency IQAir, Lahore recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 603 on Thursday morning, a level considered “extremely hazardous” for human health. In comparison, India’s capital New Delhi recorded an AQI of 473.

Data from the Punjab Environment Department showed that several areas in Lahore recorded dangerously high levels of air pollution around 6 a.m. The highest reading was observed near City School, Allama Iqbal Town, where the AQI surged to an unprecedented 1059. Other critical readings included FF Pakistan Road (1021), Wildlife and Parks Sanda Road (818), City School Programme (780), and Pakistan Engineering Service (770).

Meanwhile, Ghazi Road Interchange recorded 758, while Wagah Border showed comparatively better air quality at 176. Across Punjab, Faisalabad reported 685, Gujranwala 555, Bahawalpur 372, and Multan 364. In other major cities, Peshawar stood at 276, Sialkot 244, Hundal 210, Islamabad 188, and Karachi 177.

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Experts have warned that prolonged exposure to such pollution levels poses severe health risks, particularly respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. The Punjab government is expected to announce emergency measures soon as smog continues to choke the province.