Lahore has once again been ranked the most polluted city in the world, according to the latest data released by IQAir, recording an alarming Air Quality Index (AQI) of 479, placing it in the “hazardous” category.

Experts say this level of pollution poses severe health risks to residents of all ages and health conditions. They warn that continuous exposure to such toxic air can cause respiratory problems, heart diseases, and other serious health complications. Citizens have been advised to limit outdoor activities and wear protective masks to minimize exposure.

Following Lahore, Delhi, India, ranked second with an AQI of 236, while Tashkent, Uzbekistan, and Karachi, Pakistan, stood in third and fourth place respectively. Environmental analysts have linked Lahore’s worsening air quality to vehicular emissions, industrial smoke, crop burning, and stagnant weather conditions that trap pollutants near the surface.

Health experts are urging the government to take immediate action by enforcing emission controls, promoting public transport, and cracking down on illegal crop burning. They also emphasize the need for public awareness campaigns and long-term clean air strategies.

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The alarming AQI underscores the ongoing environmental crisis in urban Pakistan, where air pollution continues to rise each winter. Despite repeated warnings, policy implementation remains weak, leaving millions exposed to hazardous air.