Karachi tops global pollution list

KARACHI: In a shocking turn of events, the port city, the business hub of Pakistan, has topped the global pollution list, being the number one polluted city of the world, according to the Air Quality Index (AQI).

Currently, the air quality in Karachi is considered hazardous with the level of particulate matter (PM) reaching 179, which poses a severe danger to the health of the people.

Clear skies notwithstanding, air pollution levels have become a cause for concern, with the experts warning that prolonged exposure may generate respiratory problems.

The Pakistan Metrological Department (PMD) disclosed that the maximum temperature was 32°C, while the minimum was 20.4°C, with light north winds blowing through the city, while humidity was 34%.

Experts have recommended that people, especially children and the elderly, limit their time outdoors and ensure they have appropriate measures to reduce exposure to polluted air.

According to experts, air pollution levels are increasing during winter due to low wind speed and direction together with steeply lowering temperatures.

The pollution becomes even heavier in winter when the poisonous particles in the atmosphere descend, rendering the atmosphere dirty. Consequently, the air is covered with a thick layer of dirt particles, with high levels of carbon and soot contributing to air quality problems.