City experiences unhealthy air quality

The city continued to experience unhealthy air quality on Wednesday as smog levels remained elevated, posing health risks to sensitive groups

LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 11th Mar, 2026) The city continued to experience unhealthy air quality on Wednesday as smog levels remained elevated, posing health risks to sensitive groups.

According to available data, the average Air Quality Index (AQI) in Lahore was recorded at around 147, placing it in the category of “unhealthy for sensitive groups.” At this level, children, the elderly and people suffering from respiratory or heart diseases may experience adverse health effects.

Environmental monitoring showed that the concentration of PM2.5, the most dangerous type of airborne particulate matter, reached 10.

8 times higher than the annual guideline value recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). These microscopic particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, increasing the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular problems.

Experts say the rise in smog levels is mainly linked to vehicle emissions, industrial pollution, construction dust and seasonal atmospheric conditions that trap pollutants close to the ground. Relatively calm winds and warmer temperatures also contribute to the accumulation of pollutants in the atmosphere.