On Sunday, Karachi was ranked as the seventh most polluted city in the world due to worsening air quality caused by eastern winds. The Air Quality Index measured Karachi’s pollution levels at 163 particulate meters, which is considered unhealthy for residents. Health experts had previously warned that the city’s air quality was “very unhealthy,” advising people to limit outdoor activities, especially during peak pollution times.
An Air Quality Index reading of 151-200 is classified as unhealthy, while readings from 201 to 300 are even more harmful, and anything over 300 is extremely dangerous. Experts explain that in winter, heavier air traps pollutants closer to the ground, creating a layer of harmful particles like carbon and smoke that cover the city.
Various factors contribute to this pollution, including emissions from factories and the burning of coal, garbage, oil, or tires. These pollutants remain in the air throughout the winter, affecting its quality. Although southwestern sea winds usually help filter Karachi’s air, they are less effective in winter, making pollution levels worse, according to experts.
