Lahore AQI hits 500 as air pollution reaches hazardous levels

Motorcyclists carrying crates ride through thick, hazardous smog on a highway in Lahore.
Motorcyclists carrying crates ride through thick, hazardous smog on a highway in Lahore.
Hafiza Almas Manahil | Published November 11, 2026 10:59 AM
LAHORE (Web Desk): Lahore has again become the world’s most polluted city, with its average air quality index reaching 450 as thick smog covers the city.

The air has reached extremely unhealthy levels, raising serious concerns for residents. Heavy smog has reduced visibility on roads and made outdoor activities difficult. People are also facing increasing health problems due to the polluted air.

AQI Reaches Dangerous Levels Across Lahore

Several areas of Lahore have recorded extremely high pollution levels, with the AQI reaching 500 at Multan Road, Safari Park and GT Road.

Kahna recorded an AQI of 490, while Gulberg reported 475. The reading stood at 432 on Egerton Road, 392 in Shahdara and DHA Phase VI, and 390 on Burki Road.

Punjab University recorded an AQI of 373, while Wahga reported 256.

These figures show that dangerous air pollution is affecting several parts of the city rather than remaining limited to one location.

The thick layer of smog has also created problems for drivers. Poor visibility can make travelling risky, especially during early morning and evening hours when fog and pollution combine.

Other Punjab Cities Also Face Severe Pollution

Lahore is not the only city facing unhealthy air. Several other cities across Punjab have also reported high pollution levels.

Multan recorded an alarming AQI of 1,000, while Gujranwala reached 485. Faisalabad, Bahawalpur, Sargodha and Nankana Sahib have also reported severe or hazardous air quality.

The rising pollution levels have increased concerns about the health of people living in these areas.

Read Also: Pakistan weather: Snowfall expected in northern areas

Hospitals Report More Breathing and Eye Problems

The worsening air quality is affecting residents, with more people suffering from breathing difficulties, eye irritation and throat infections seeking medical treatment.

Children, elderly people and those with existing breathing problems may face greater risks during periods of heavy smog.

Doctors have advised citizens to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities. People who need to go outside have been urged to wear protective face masks to reduce their exposure to polluted air.

Residents should also avoid outdoor exercise and limit the time they spend near busy roads and areas with heavy pollution.

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