Lahore and Karachi Rank among World’s Most Polluted Cities, Threatening Public Health amid Measles Outbreak
According to the latest Air Quality Index (AQI) rankings from IQAir, Lahore and Karachi have been listed among the most polluted cities globally, posing severe risks to public health. Lahore, in particular, has been ranked as the most polluted city in the world, with an alarming AQI of 334, classified as “Hazardous” for residents. The city, with a population exceeding 11 million, continues to suffer from poor air quality, exacerbated by vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and crop burning. The hazardous air has triggered a surge in respiratory issues, with many residents battling aggravated asthma and other lung diseases, particularly during the winter months when smog levels peak. In the past month alone, nearly 1.9 million individuals in Lahore have fallen ill due to the smog, with more than 129,000 seeking hospital treatment for respiratory issues. Furthermore, over 61 million people have been diagnosed with cardiothoracic conditions, and more than 69,000 people are reported daily with respiratory problems, chest pain, or strokes caused by the smog. The Climate Action Centre (CAC), a non-governmental environmental organization, has identified vehicle emissions as a major contributor to the worsening air quality in both Lahore and Karachi, accounting for 60% of the pollution in Karachi and 80% in Lahore. CAC Director Yasir Hussain, during a recent press conference at the Karachi Press Club, stressed the urgent need for stronger measures to reduce emissions and improve air quality. As Lahore and Karachi continue to battle severe pollution, authorities are facing mounting pressure to implement effective strategies to protect public health, while parents are being encouraged to take proactive measures to safeguard their children from both smog-related health issues and the measles outbreak.
Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city, ranks 13th on the global AQI list with an AQI of 164, falling into the “Unhealthy” category. The city’s busy port, heavy traffic, and industrial zones continue to contribute significantly to the pollution crisis. Despite ongoing efforts to tackle the issue, Karachi’s air quality remains a growing concern, endangering the health of residents, particularly those with pre-existing health conditions.
Adding to the health crisis, the measles outbreak has raised alarms among health experts. Measles, a highly contagious disease characterized by symptoms like fever, cough, and skin rashes, poses a particular threat to vulnerable children, especially those who are malnourished or unvaccinated. Doctors have urged parents to ensure their children receive the measles vaccine between the ages of nine months and one and a half years to protect them from the fatal illness.