Lahore has once again become the most polluted city of the world with its AQ index as high as 365, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

According to the data released by the Air Quality Index, Lahore on Wednesday topped the list of the dirtiest cities of the world with concentration of the lung-damaging airborne Particulate Matter (PM) in the atmosphere as high as 365.

The ratio of air quality index recorded in different areas of the city is as follows: DHA Phase 8, 486; Syed Maratib Ali Road, 406; DHA Phase 2, 388; Shahdara, 371; Kot Lakhpat 367; and US Consulate 367. 

The health experts have advised citizens to take precautionary measures in view of pollution in the air and wear masks. 

Meanwhile, the city temperature was recorded 22 degree Celsius.

During next 24 hours, the minimum temperature of the city will remain 18 degree Celsius and maximum temperature will hover to 31 degree Celsius. 

According to the Metrological office, there is no chance of rain in the next 2 to 3 days. 

The Global Alliance on Health and Pollution estimated in 2019 that 128,000 Pakistanis die annually due to air pollution-related illnesses. Decision-makers have been slow to react to the pollution problem. 

According to the Air Quality Index Life, air pollution in Pakistan is reducing almost four years of the average age of its citizens, while the average life expectancy of those who breathe in the polluted air of Lahore is decreasing by 5 years.

According to the report of the Air Quality Life Index in 2021, Pakistan has become the fourth most polluted country in the world. About 210 million people in Pakistan are affected by pollution. Due to pollution, the average age of Pakistani citizens is decreasing by 3 to 4 years.

There are several factors which are responsible for the decline in air quality in Pakistan cities. The major factors are included: vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, fossil fuel-fired power plants, burning of waste materials, and coal being burned by thousands of brick kilns.

Reporter Komal Aslam