Karachi, the largest city in Pakistan, has been facing increasing challenges related to air pollution. The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a tool used worldwide to describe how clean or polluted the air is and how it may affect health. In recent years, Karachi’s AQI has frequently fallen into the unhealthy range, raising serious public health concerns.
What Does AQI Mean?
The Air Quality Index uses a numerical scale to indicate air pollution levels. Lower numbers reflect cleaner air, while higher numbers indicate poor air quality. As AQI levels rise, the risk to health increases—particularly for children, older adults, and people with asthma, heart disease, or other lung conditions. When AQI exceeds safe limits, even healthy individuals may experience symptoms.
Why Is Karachi’s Air Quality Poor?
Several factors contribute to Karachi’s high pollution levels. These include heavy traffic emissions, industrial smoke, dust from ongoing construction, open burning of waste, and limited green spaces. Weather conditions, especially during winter, can trap pollutants close to the ground, making breathing conditions worse.
Health Effects of Poor Air Quality
Long-term exposure to polluted air can irritate the airways and worsen respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and chronic cough. People may experience shortness of breath, eye irritation, headaches, fatigue, and increased risk of heart and lung disease. Children are particularly vulnerable because their lungs are still developing.
How to Protect Yourself
On days when AQI is high, it is advisable to reduce outdoor activities, especially exercise. Keeping windows closed, using indoor air purifiers if available, and wearing protective masks when outdoors can help reduce exposure. Monitoring daily AQI updates allows individuals to plan activities safely.
The Way Forward
Improving air quality in Karachi requires long-term efforts, including better traffic management, stricter industrial controls, waste management reforms, and urban greenery. Public awareness and personal preventive measures play a vital role in reducing health risks linked to air pollution.