Pakistan, Sept. 25 -- Lahore has topped the global pollution ranking as air quality continues to deteriorate across the city. Pollution levels rose sharply in several areas, with some locations recording AQI readings above 200.

At 1:30pm, Lahore's overall Air Quality Index stood at 179. Global air-quality monitors also recorded rising pollution levels across the city this week. The worsening conditions have raised concerns among residents.

Barki Road recorded an AQI of 189 during the reported afternoon readings. Allama Iqbal Town recorded 181, while Model Town reached an AQI of 167. Defence Phase 5 recorded a reading of 155.

Earlier on Friday, Lahore's AQI reached 194 around 9am, according to the supplied air-quality data. That reading...