04-12-2020 | 16:51 PM
US Air Quality Index
According to the recently published US Air Quality Index, Lahore once again ranked among the world's most polluted cities.
The study notes that Lahore's particulate matter rating was 423. Lahore preceded New Delhi with a particulate matter ranking of 229.
Kathmandu, Nepal's capital, ranked third with a particulate matter ranking of 178.
About Air Quality Index:
The Air Quality Index is an index that measures air quality on a daily basis. The index aims to quantify how air quality impacts the wellbeing of people living in and around the world for a limited period.
The Air Quality Index is measured on the basis of five main air pollutants, such as ground-level ozone, sulphur dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter.
The upper level of air quality Index is the higher level of air emissions.
Categories of Air Quality Index:
If the Air Quality Index is between 0 and 50, the quality is classified as Fair and has marginal effects.
If the Air Quality Index is between 51 and 100, the air quality is classified as satisfactory. Satisfactory levels of air quality can cause mild breathing problems for sensitive people.
If the Air Quality Index is between 101 and 200, it is classified as moderately polluted. Moderately polluted air quality can cause lung disorders such as asthma.
If the Air Quality Index is between 201 and 300, it is classified as poor. The low air quality index triggers heart disease.
If the Air Quality Index is below 301 and 400, it is classified as very low. Very poor air quality can cause respiratory distress, and chronic exposure can lead to lung disease and heart disease.
If the Air Quality Index is between 401 and 500, it is categorised as severe. A severe air quality will cause respiratory issues in healthy people and will make it difficult for them to continue even light physical activities.
The above categories of air quality standards are set by the central pollution control board of India.
