What is the current Air Quality Index (AQI) in Lahore?

The city's overall AQI has reached a "hazardous" level of 362, with some neighborhoods recording even higher levels, such as Shalimar at 690, Shadman at 611, and Syed Maratib Ali Road at 609.

How is the Lahore government responding to the smog crisis?

The Punjab government is implementing a comprehensive strategy, including banning plastic bags, shifting brick kilns to cleaner technology, establishing a "Smog War Room", and launching a public awareness campaign to combat the environmental emergency.

What are the health risks associated with the hazardous smog levels in Lahore?

The high pollution levels pose serious health risks, especially for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions. Health experts have urged Lahore residents to take precautions, such as wearing masks and limiting outdoor exposure.

Home / Environment / Lahore Chokes Under Hazardous Smog, Declared World's Most Polluted City

Lahore Chokes Under Hazardous Smog, Declared World's Most Polluted City

25 Oct

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Summary

Lahore declared world's most polluted city on October 25, 2025
Air Quality Index reached "hazardous" level of 362
Government implementing comprehensive strategy to combat smog crisis

As of October 25, 2025, the city of Lahore has been declared the world's most polluted, with a hazardous blanket of smog enveloping the metropolis. The crisis was quantified by alarming data, with the city's overall Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching a "hazardous" level of 362.

In specific neighborhoods, the situation was even worse, with the Shalimar area recording a staggering AQI of 690, followed by Shadman at 611 and Syed Maratib Ali Road at 609. Other areas, including Iqbal Town, Lower Mall, and the Civil Secretariat, also registered levels falling in the "emergency range", posing serious health risks to the residents.

In response to the escalating crisis, the Punjab government is following a comprehensive strategy to combat the environmental emergency. For the first time in the province's history, a ban has been imposed on the use of plastic bags, and brick kilns across the region are being shifted to cleaner zig-zag technology. Additionally, a dedicated "Smog War Room" has been established, and a public helpline set up for residents to report environmental violations.