Air pollution in several cities of Punjab has reached alarming levels, with Lahore ranking as the most polluted city in the world, according to global air quality indices.

On Saturday morning, Lahore’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 363, a level considered extremely hazardous to human health.

India’s capital, New Delhi, followed as the second most polluted city with an AQI of 260.

However, the situation in Faisalabad turned even grimmer, where the AQI climbed to 539, placing it in the “extremely hazardous” category.

Other cities of Punjab also recorded poor air quality, with Gujranwala recording 239, Multan 227, and Sialkot 191 on the air quality index.

Environmental experts have said that the deterioration in air quality is mainly caused by vehicle emissions, industrial smoke, burning of crop residue, and smog drifting in from India.

According to the report, vehicular and industrial pollution is behind poor air quality in Lahore and Faisalabad, while Karachi’s air quality is worsened by port activities and urban congestion.

In the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, construction dust and vehicle emissions are considered the major factors behind poor air quality, whereas Multan suffers from agricultural waste burning and cross-border pollution.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates, nearly 7 million people die annually because of air pollution, while billions more suffer from pollution-related diseases.

Environmental specialists have advised citizens to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities, keep windows closed, use air purifiers, and wear masks when stepping outside during days of severe pollution.