Karachi and Lahore have once again captured global attention—but unfortunately, for troubling reasons. Both cities have been ranked among the most polluted in the world, highlighting growing concerns about the quality of urban life in Pakistan.
Karachi, the country’s largest metropolis with over 11.6 million residents, continues to grapple with the consequences of rapid urbanization and unplanned expansion. Lahore, home to 6.3 million people, faces recurring air quality crises, particularly during the winter months.
Despite being the 36th largest country by area, Pakistan ranks as the 7th most populous nation globally and is steadily nearing the 200 million population mark. With increasing urban migration and densely populated cities, pollution levels are worsening year after year.
At present, Pakistan has 8 cities with populations exceeding one million, 59 cities with between 100,000 and one million residents, and nearly 284 with more than 10,000 inhabitants. This urban strain continues to stretch limited resources and intensify environmental challenges.
Even so, around 61% of Pakistan’s population still resides in rural areas. However, ongoing population growth is expected to drive greater migration toward cities in the next decade—further aggravating the pollution crisis unless decisive and sustained action is taken.
The alarming ranking of Karachi and Lahore as the world’s most polluted cities serves as a stark reminder for policymakers and citizens alike to urgently pursue sustainable urban development and environmental reform.
