Lahore, Karachi record worst air quality on AQI

According to the Air Quality Index (AQI), Lahore and Karachi, Pakistan's two largest cities, experienced extremely unhealthy air quality on Friday.

Karachi's air quality also deteriorated, reaching an unhealthy level with an AQI of 190, marked as 'red' on the scale.

Karachi’s deteriorating air quality also poses health risks to residents, further adding to concerns about public safety in the port city.

Lahore's air quality reached a hazardous level, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) soaring to 663 at around 2:38 am. This alarming level is marked as 'purple' on the AQI scale.

Globally, Lahore also ranked as the city with the worst air quality, with an AQI of 626. Delhi, India, follows closely with an AQI of 472.

Health experts say that citizens should wear masks when leaving their homes.

Experts warn that air quality indices between 151 and 200 are harmful to health, while levels from 201 to 300 are considered extremely hazardous. 

Health experts advise the public to exercise caution, emphasising the use of masks and other protective measures to mitigate the harmful effects of pollution.

A report of the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago stated that pollution is the biggest health threat in India and Pakistan, with residents of Dehli and Lahore losing years of life owing to its effects.