Karachi’s air quality showed a mixed trend on Monday, with some areas seeing improvement while others remained affected by pollution.
Data recorded at 6:00 pm indicated lower PM2.5 levels in most parts of the city. North Nazimabad had an AQI of 139, placing it in the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” category, showing slight improvement but still a concern. Meanwhile, Gulshan-e-Iqbal Block 14 registered 153, putting it in the “Unhealthy” zone for all residents, remaining a persistent pollution hotspot.
On the positive side, Mauripur reported a “Moderate” AQI of 95 and Shahra-e-Faisal 98, indicating cleaner and safer air in these districts.
The incomplete data suggests that air quality is fluctuating, with some areas clearing due to changing weather while others remain trapped under localized smog.
Yasir Darya, director of the Climate Action Center in Karachi, said, “In the past, Karachi experienced toxic air quality levels during winter; however, the current cold wave in Karachi has brought temporary relief, improving air quality and offering residents some respite.”
He advised sensitive groups, particularly those with respiratory illnesses, to wear masks outdoors to reduce exposure to harmful PM2.5 particles.
Karachi Air Quality Categories:
- AQI 0–50: Good – Air quality is excellent with minimal or no risk to health.
- AQI 51–100: Moderate – Generally acceptable, slight concern for sensitive individuals; active children, adults, and those with respiratory conditions should limit prolonged outdoor activity.
- AQI 101–150: Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups – Sensitive individuals may experience health effects; active children, adults, and people with respiratory issues should limit extended outdoor exertion.
- AQI 151–200: Unhealthy – Health effects may affect everyone, sensitive groups at higher risk; prolonged outdoor activity should be avoided.
- AQI 201–300: Very Unhealthy – Emergency-level health warning; entire population likely affected; outdoor activity should be limited or avoided.
- AQI 300+: Hazardous – Extremely poor air quality; serious health risk to everyone; all outdoor exertion should be avoided.
This report is produced in collaboration with Climate Action Center Karachi.