Air Pollution Reaches Critical Levels in Lahore and Delhi, Posing Serious Health Risks

Air quality has sharply deteriorated in parts of northern India and adjoining Pakistan on November 3, 2026. Lahore, Pakistan, recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 447, making it the world's most polluted city according to IQAir. Delhi, India, also experienced "very poor" air quality with an AQI of 215 (IQAir) or 332 (India's Central Pollution Control Board). This pre-winter smog, exacerbated by cold, dense air trapping emissions, exposes residents to serious respiratory risks.