City records average AQI at 154

LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 21st Feb, 2026) The city recorded an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 154, placing it in the unhealthy category and indicating that air pollution levels remain a concern for residents.

Health experts warn that exposure to such conditions can particularly affect children, the elderly, and people suffering from asthma or heart-related ailments, potentially causing breathing difficulties, throat irritation, and fatigue.

Monitoring data further revealed that the concentration of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) was approximately 11.9 times higher than the annual guideline value recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). These microscopic particles, largely produced by vehicular emissions, industrial activity, construction dust, and other urban sources, can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, increasing the risk of long-term respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.