Rawalpindi pollen 'dangerous' levels: Eye allergies surge

Pollen counts in Rawalpindi and Islamabad have reached dangerous levels, prompting warnings from Al-Shifa Trust Eye Hospital about a surge in painful eye allergies. The Pakistan Meteorological Department recorded a peak of 14,695 pollen particles per cubic meter in Islamabad, with paper mulberry identified as the dominant and very high allergen. This seasonal pollen surge typically occurs from mid-March through April.

Dr. Inamul Haq of Al-Shifa Trust highlighted that high pollen concentrations trigger allergic conjunctivitis, causing redness, itching, and inflammation. He recommended wearing large-frame sunglasses outdoors and using air purifiers indoors for those with existing allergies or asthma. Approximately 30 percent of the twin cities' population suffers from allergic rhinitis, with hospitals reporting a sharp annual rise in allergy cases.

Climate change is identified as a significant factor worsening the problem. Warmer springs and reduced rainfall allow pollen to persist longer in the air, effectively expanding the summer and shrinking the spring season. A 2026 study in the International Journal of Biometeorology confirmed that higher temperatures and air pollution increase pollen concentrations and extend the allergy season in Islamabad.