Based on real-time data from IQAir as referenced, Karachi, Sindh has the best air quality among the cities listed, with the lowest US AQI score.
Understanding Air Quality with AQI
Air Quality Index (AQI) is a scale used to report daily air quality. It tells you how clean or polluted the air is, and what associated health effects might be a concern for you. A lower AQI value indicates better air quality, while a higher value means greater air pollution.
Pakistan City Air Quality Ranking
According to the specific data provided in the reference from IQAir, the cities were ranked as follows based on their real-time US AQI:
| # | City | Province/Region | US AQI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Karachi | Sindh | 88 |
| 2 | Multan | Punjab | 134 |
| 3 | Abbottabad | Khyber Pakhtunkhwa | 152 |
| 4 | Islamabad | Islamabad | 152 |
Source: Real-time Pakistan Cleanest city ranking - IQAir
Interpreting the Data
As shown in the table:
- Karachi has a US AQI of 88, which falls into the "Moderate" category (typically 51-100). This means air quality is acceptable; however, for some pollutants, there may be a moderate health concern for a very small number of people who are unusually sensitive to air pollution.
- Multan has a US AQI of 134, which falls into the "Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups" category (typically 101-150). This means members of sensitive groups may experience health effects. The general public is less likely to be affected.
- Abbottabad and Islamabad both have a US AQI of 152, falling into the "Unhealthy" category (typically 151-200). Everyone may begin to experience health effects; members of sensitive groups may experience more serious health effects.
Therefore, based on this specific real-time snapshot, Karachi's AQI of 88 indicates the best air quality among these listed cities.
It's important to note that air quality can change rapidly due to weather conditions, pollution sources, and other factors. Real-time data provides the most current picture, but the rankings can fluctuate.
