Air pollution in Lahore reached unprecedented levels, pushing hospitals to capacity and leading authorities to consider a lockdown if residents don’t comply with mask mandates.
In short:
- Lahore, with an air-quality index over 1,100, is currently the world’s most polluted city, far exceeding the hazardous threshold of 300.
- Local hospitals have treated tens of thousands of people suffering from respiratory issues related to the smog, with complaints of coughing and burning eyes being widespread.
- To curb pollution, officials have restricted outdoor activities and are exploring artificial rainfall as a possible solution.
Key quote:
“Tens of thousands of patients suffering from respiratory diseases were treated at hospitals and clinics in a week.”
— Salman Kazmi, vice president of the Pakistan Medical Association
Why this matters:
Lahore’s severe pollution crisis threatens public health and highlights the urgent need for sustainable air quality solutions. If unchecked, the toxic air can lead to chronic illnesses and cripple daily life in one of Pakistan's largest cities.
Learn more: Pakistan battles severe air pollution with school closures and cloud seeding
