Toxic Smog Chokes Northern India and Pakistan as Pollution Levels Soar
Toxic Smog Chokes Northern India and Pakistan as Pollution Levels Soar
IN · Published Nov 4, 2026
• Air quality in northern India and Pakistan has deteriorated significantly as early-winter smog sets in.
• Lahore has been ranked the world's most polluted city, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 447 and PM2.5 levels 60 times higher than the World Health Organization's annual exposure limit.

Impact & Risks

The toxic smog poses severe health risks, particularly to vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. PM2.5 particles, which are small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs, are at hazardous levels in Lahore and are also high in Delhi. The smog is expected to worsen in the coming days, increasing the risk of respiratory and heart-related illnesses. The situation is further aggravated by the anticipated use of firecrackers during Diwali, which could lead to a significant spike in pollution levels.

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