Lahore: Lahore has been declared the most polluted city in the world, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 354, categorized as "Hazardous," according to global air quality monitoring service IQAir. The city, with a population exceeding 11 million, has faced persistent air quality issues driven by vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and crop burning. The situation worsens during the colder months when smog becomes more severe, creating significant health risks for residents.

Recent statistics highlight the alarming public health crisis in Lahore. In the past month alone, nearly 1.9 million people have fallen ill due to smog-related conditions, with 1,29,229 requiring hospital treatment for respiratory problems. Over 6.1 million individuals have been diagnosed with cardiothoracic conditions, while 69,399 patients are reported daily with respiratory issues, chest pain, or strokes linked to air pollution.

Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city, is also grappling with severe pollution, ranking 13th on the AQI list with a score of 164, categorized as "Unhealthy." The city’s pollution stems from heavy port activity, dense traffic, and industrial emissions. While its pollution levels are not as extreme as Lahore's, they still pose significant risks to public health and the environment, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Vehicle emissions have been identified as a major contributor to pollution in both cities. According to the Climate Action Centre (CAC), petrol and diesel vehicles account for 60% of Karachi's pollution and 80% of Lahore's. Yasir Hussain, Director of CAC, emphasized the urgent need to address vehicle emissions as part of broader efforts to combat air pollution.

Adding to the environmental and health crisis, a measles outbreak has emerged in Punjab and Karachi, further straining public health systems. Measles, characterized by fever, cough, red eyes, and skin rashes, poses a severe risk to malnourished and unvaccinated children. Health experts are urging parents to vaccinate their children between the ages of nine months and one and a half years to curb the spread of the highly contagious disease.

Despite ongoing efforts to tackle air pollution, the worsening air quality in Lahore and Karachi demands immediate and sustained action. Environmental experts and health officials are calling for stricter regulations on vehicle emissions and industrial activities, alongside comprehensive public health initiatives to mitigate the harmful effects of pollution on residents.