Lahore recorded its lowest average air pollution levels for October 29 in nine years, according to Hawanama data, even as the city’s air quality remained in the ‘Very Unhealthy’ category, highlighting the persistent challenge of tackling smog in Punjab’s provincial capital.

The city’s air quality index (AQI) averaged 208, equivalent to a PM2.5 concentration of 158.3 micrograms per cubic metre, on October 29, 2026. Hawanama records dating back to 2018 show that this was the lowest pollution level recorded for the corresponding date in the nine-year period.

Despite the relative improvement, an average AQI of 208 indicates that Lahore’s air remained hazardous, particularly for children, older people and individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. The........

© Naya Daur