Lahore yet again ranked as most polluted cities in the world, Report

The cultural capital of the country, Lahore has once again ranked as the most polluted city in the world, according to the US Air Quality Index’s data.

As per the index, Lahore reported a particulate matter (PM) rating of 423. Whereas the financial hub of Pakistan, Karachi also joined Lahore in the list of top 10 cities for the worst air quality in the world.

The report stated that the Indian capital, New Delhi is ranked second with a PM of 229, while Nepal’s Kathmandu topped the third-worst city with a PM of 178.

The air quality can be considered as satisfactory if the AQI rests under 5, the United States Environmental Protection Agency said adding that Lahore’s AQI fell in the range of 301 and higher, which is considered as “hazardous”.

The provincial disaster management authority while taking initiatives to reduce the smog in Punjab has so far sealed 613 brick kilns, 2,148 industries and impounded 8,579 vehicles.

The PDMA has arrested 478 people in taking actions to prevent the environment, according to a report by the authority from November 22.