LAHORE: Pakistan has been placed at the top of the list as the most polluted nation in the world, followed by all others, with India at second place, based on recent global air quality ratings.
The environmentalists have documented that Lahore posted a mean Air Quality Index (AQI) of 304, which is considered to be highly risky to human health.
Delhi and Faisalabad are also facing high levels of worrying pollution, with AQI at 221. Specialists have cautioned that an AQI of over 302 is extremely dangerous to one’s health, raising the risk of respiratory and other ailments.
Pollution has increased with the burning of crop residues, emissions from vehicles, and industrial effluents.
The authorities have cautioned that the air quality could worsen over the next few days and urged residents to minimize unnecessary outdoor activities and wear protective masks.
Retaliating, the Environmental Protection Department remains in operation against polluting sources, whereas the Lahore district administration and Transport Department have further enhanced crackdowns on smog-emitting cars to halt the deteriorating scenario.