Pakistan most polluted country 2025 as PM2.5 levels exceed global safety limits

Pakistan most polluted country 2025 has become a major concern after a new global report highlighted alarming air quality levels. The report shows Pakistan ranked at the top due to dangerous pollution levels.

According to IQAir, Pakistan recorded extremely high levels of fine particulate matter known as PM2.5 during 2025. These particles are harmful and can enter deep into the lungs.

The report states that Pakistan’s average PM2.5 level reached 67.3 micrograms per cubic metre. This is far above the safe limit set by the World Health Organization, which recommends only 5 micrograms.

This means pollution levels in Pakistan were up to 13 times higher than safe standards. However, there was a slight improvement compared to 2024, when the average level was even higher at 73.7.

Health experts warn that PM2.5 pollution is dangerous. It can lead to early births and increase the risk of serious diseases like dementia, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s.

The report also ranked Bangladesh and Tajikistan as the second and third most polluted countries in 2025. Chad, which was worst in 2024, dropped to fourth place.

In terms of cities, Loni in India was named the most polluted city in the world. Most of the top polluted cities were located in India, China, and Pakistan.

Globally, only 14 percent of cities met safe air quality standards in 2025. A few countries, including Australia, Iceland, Estonia, and Panama, managed to stay within safe limits.

The report also noted that climate-related events like wildfires contributed to worsening air quality worldwide. Large-scale burning released massive carbon emissions into the atmosphere.

Experts say strong policies and public awareness are needed to reduce pollution levels. Without action, air quality in Pakistan may continue to pose serious risks to public health.