Lahore – October 20, 2025
Lahore has once again found itself in the global spotlight for all the wrong reasons — ranking as the second most polluted city in the world on Sunday, according to real-time data from air quality monitoring platform IQAir.
The city recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 189, categorised as “very unhealthy”. Only Delhi ranked higher with an AQI of 212 at around 7:30 PM. The dangerously high pollution levels have raised fresh concerns among environmentalists and health professionals alike.
The level of PM2.5 — fine particulate matter harmful to human health — was recorded at 109 micrograms per cubic metre, nearly 22 times higher than the World Health Organisation’s recommended limit. These ultra-fine particles, less than 2.5 micrometres in diameter, can enter the lungs and bloodstream, increasing the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
Lahore once called the Paris of Punjab now tops the global list for worst air quality. The city’s skies are filled with toxic smog, children are struggling to breathe, and hospitals are overflowing with respiratory cases. Yet, the so-called “paid voices” stay silent, afraid… pic.twitter.com/UhCnWDWxqO
— Hassan Ali Gondal (@hassangondalppp) October 19, 2025
In response, IQAir has issued a health advisory for Lahore residents, urging them to avoid outdoor activities, use air purifiers indoors, keep windows shut, and wear protective masks when venturing outside.
Lahore has historically struggled with poor air quality, particularly during winter months when crop burning, industrial emissions, and vehicular pollution combine to form dense smog.
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To combat the worsening air crisis this year, the Punjab government has deployed “smog guns” — machines that spray fine water droplets into the air to suppress dust and pollutants. Punjab’s Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb confirmed the initiative, noting its successful application in countries like China and India.
As air quality continues to deteriorate, health experts stress the need for long-term solutions, including stricter emission controls, public awareness campaigns, and investment in green urban infrastructure.
