Pakistan has been ranked the most polluted country in 2025, according to a global report by IQAir. The report found that average PM2.5 pollution levels in Pakistan were up to 13 times higher than the safe limit set by the World Health Organization.
PM2.5 refers to very small particles in the air that can enter the lungs and cause serious health problems. The WHO recommends a safe level of less than 5 micrograms per cubic metre, but many areas in Pakistan are far above this level.
The report also ranked Bangladesh and Tajikistan as the second and third-most-polluted countries. Globally, only 13 countries met the WHO’s air quality standard, while 130 out of 143 monitored countries exceeded safe limits.
At the city level, Loni in India was named the most polluted city in the world. Several other cities in Pakistan, India, and China also ranked among the worst affected.
Experts say pollution comes from vehicle emissions, industrial smoke, construction dust, and the burning of waste. While 75 countries showed improvement in air quality, 54 countries reported higher pollution levels.
The report highlights the urgent need for stronger policies and public awareness to reduce pollution and protect health.
