Medical experts have warned that pollen levels in Rawalpindi and Islamabad have risen to dangerous levels, causing a large number of patients with severe eye allergies to rush to hospitals, and this situation has turned into a serious public health issue.
The Meteorological Department has recorded an unusually high pollen count of 14,695 particles per cubic meter in Islamabad’s Sector H-8. Significant amounts of 5,510 and 5,391 particles were also recorded in Sector G-6 and Sector E-8 respectively, indicating a serious threat during the pollen season, which typically lasts from mid-March to April.
Senior Consultant Professor Dr. Inam-ul-Haq of Al-Shifa Trust Eye Hospital explained today that the excess of pollen in the air is causing widespread allergies. He stated that a large number of patients affected by these conditions are coming to the hospital, whose eyes become red, itchy, and swollen.
According to estimates from the Ministry of Health, approximately 120,000 residents of the twin cities, which is about 30 percent of the total population, suffer from allergies. A significant year-over-year increase in allergy cases is being reported in Rawalpindi’s Benazir Bhutto Hospital and other medical centers.
Dr. Inam-ul-Haq attributed this growing problem to climate change. He pointed out that the lengthening summer season, which has now extended to about 180 days instead of 150, and the severely shrinking spring season, which has reduced from 45 to just 10 days, have reduced the seasonal rains that previously helped clear pollen from the air.
This observation is also supported by a recent study published in the International Journal of Biometeorology. The study, published on February 2, 2026, analyzed 16 years of pollen data from Islamabad and concluded that rising temperatures and air pollution are increasing pollen levels and prolonging the allergy season.
Common symptoms of the allergy include a burning sensation, constant itching, redness, excessive watering of the eyes, swelling of the eyelids, and increased sensitivity to light.
Medical experts are advising the public to take precautionary measures. Professor Dr. Inam-ul-Haq recommended wearing protective or large-framed sunglasses to protect the eyes when going outside. The use of an indoor air purifier is strongly recommended for individuals with pre-existing conditions like asthma.
Citizens are urged to minimize outdoor activities during peak pollen hours, i.e., from morning to evening. It is also advised to keep windows closed, use air conditioners for ventilation, and use appropriate eye drops in case of severe or persistent symptoms.