Islamabad Air Quality Index (AQI) Worsens to Unhealthy Levels

According to Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency, Islamabad’s main air problem is PM2.5 (very fine dust).

1. AQI for PM2.5 is recorded at 159, which is considered ‘Unhealthy’ by international standards.
2. While taking 24-hour average the figure is 72.3 µg/m³ (the national safety limit is 35 µg/m³)

This means many people can feel breathing irritation, not just those with asthma.

When is it safer to go outside?

PM2.5 changed through the day:

1. Morning (00:10–08:00): 67.8 µg/m³
2. Daytime (08:10–16:00): 61.4 µg/m³ → best window to go outside
3. Evening (16:10–00:00): 87.7 µg/m³ → worst period to go outside

Islamabad is famous for lush green parks for walking and trails for outdoor activities but if you need a walk or outdoor errands, try late morning to mid-afternoon.

What about other pollutants?

As per the data provided by the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency harmful gases stayed in the ‘Good range’.

1. Ozone (O₃): AQI 28, average 33.5 µg/m³ (limit 130)
2. Carbon Monoxide (CO): AQI 6, average 513 µg/m³ (limit 5000)
3. Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂): AQI 21, average 22.5 µg/m³ (limit 80)

Prevailing issue in Islamabad is dust, not gases.

What is PM2.5 and why does it matter?

PM2.5 are tiny particles human eye is unable to capture. They travel deep into the lungs and can cause cough, sore throat, watery eyes, chest tightness, and asthma flare-ups.

Moreover, long exposure can harm heart and lung health.

Easy steps to protect yourself

1. Plan outdoor activity from 9am-4pm and avoid evenings if possible.
2. Wear a good mask (N95/KN95) when the air looks hazy or avoid outside for long.
3. Shut windows during peak hours and use an air purifier or AC on recirculate.
4. Children, elderly, pregnant women, and people with asthma/heart disease must keep outdoor time short and keep medicines handy.
5. Drink water if symptoms persist (wheezing, chest pain) and urgently seek medical advice.

Source

Figures come from the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA) Air Quality Index for Islamabad, 30-10-2025.

Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA)

1. Pak-EPA was created under Section 5 of the Pakistan Environmental Protection Act (PEPA) 1997.
2. It issues certificates for environmental labs in Islamabad Capital Territory.
3. It drafts and updates National Environmental Quality Standards (NEQS) with PEPC approval.
4. It promotes research, technology, and legislation to prevent pollution and protect the environment.
5. It guides the public, sets safety safeguards, and supports NGOs/community groups for environmental protection.
6. It can investigate environmental issues on its own or on public complaints.