World’s top 20 most ‘Polluted Cities’ dominated by Asia; Lahore among worst affected
March 11, 2025: A recent report by IQAir has revealed that 19 out of the world’s top 20 most polluted cities are located in Asia underscoring the continent’s ongoing struggle with air quality.
Pakistan’s second-largest city Lahore has been identified as one of the most polluted urban areas globally and highlighting the severe environmental challenges faced by the country.
Pakistan’s Most Polluted Cities
The report identifies the following four Pakistani cities as having the highest pollution levels:
Lahore: Consistently ranking among the top-polluted cities, Lahore’s air quality remains a significant concern.
Karachi: As Pakistan’s largest city, Karachi continues to grapple with deteriorating air quality.
Faisalabad: This industrial hub faces substantial pollution challenges.
Peshawar: Air quality in Peshawar has worsened, placing it among the country’s most polluted cities.
Non-Asian City in the Rankings
The sole non-Asian city to appear in the top 20 most polluted cities is Madrid, Spain. Ranked 13th, Madrid’s inclusion underscores that air pollution is a global issue, not confined to Asia.
Parameters for Measuring City Pollution
Air pollution levels in cities are typically assessed using several key parameters:
Particulate Matter (PM2.5 and PM10): These fine particles can penetrate deep into the respiratory system, posing significant health risks.
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂): Emitted from vehicles and industrial activities, NO₂ contributes to respiratory problems and the formation of smog.
Ground-Level Ozone (O₃): Formed by chemical reactions between pollutants, ground-level ozone can cause respiratory issues and other health problems.
Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂): Produced by burning fossil fuels, SO₂ can lead to acid rain and respiratory ailments.
These pollutants are measured using air quality indices and monitoring systems to determine the overall air quality and potential health impacts.
Health Implications
Long-term exposure to high levels of these pollutants can lead to severe health issues, including respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular diseases, and reduced life expectancy. The report emphasizes the urgent need for preventive measures to mitigate these health risks.
Global Disparities and Initiatives
While only a few countries, such as Australia and New Zealand, meet the World Health Organization’s air quality guidelines, many nations, including Pakistan and India, continue to struggle with high pollution levels. The report highlights the need for better monitoring and initiatives to promote renewable energy, public transport, and infrastructure improvements to combat air pollution.
The findings serve as a stark reminder of the pressing need for comprehensive strategies to address air pollution, particularly in rapidly urbanizing regions, especially Pakistan.
