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Multan, situated in the fertile plains of southern Punjab, Pakistan, occupies a strategic position along the Chenab River, approximately 200 kilometres southwest of Lahore. Known as the 'City of Saints,' its urban character blends historic Sufi shrines with rapidly expanding commercial and residential zones, creating a dense urban fabric that exacerbates local pollution. The city lies at an elevation of about 129 metres above sea level, within the vast Indus River basin, which supports intensive agriculture—particularly cotton, wheat, and sugarcane—that surrounds the urban core. This agricultural belt, combined with Multan's role as a regional industrial hub, significantly impacts air quality: emissions from brick kilns, fertiliser factories, and chemical plants are concentrated in industrial estates on the city's outskirts, while vehicle exhaust and road dust plague the congested inner areas. The semi-arid climate, with low annual rainfall, allows pollutants to accumulate, especially during calm weather periods. Multan's location in a topographical bowl, flanked by the Sulaiman Range to the west, can trap pollutants under temperature inversions, particularly in winter. Proximity to the Chenab River provides some moderating influence but does little to disperse emissions, as the flat terrain lacks natural ventilation corridors, making the city vulnerable to persistent smog and dust storms that sweep across the plains from the Thar Desert to the southeast.

Multan's air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern driven by its semi-arid climate and anthropogenic activities. In winter (October to February), pollution peaks dramatically due to a combination of meteorological and human factors: temperature inversions trap pollutants close to the ground, while calm winds and high humidity from fog exacerbate the accumulation of emissions from vehicles, brick kilns, and domestic biomass burning. Agricultural residue burning after the harvest in October-November further spikes particulate levels, creating hazardous smog episodes that reduce visibility and pose severe respiratory risks. Sensitive groups, such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions, should avoid outdoor activities during these months, especially in early mornings when inversions are strongest. Spring (March to May) brings some relief with rising temperatures and occasional dust storms, which can temporarily clear pollutants but introduce coarse dust particles, requiring precautions against eye and lung irritation. The summer monsoon (June to September) offers the cleanest air, as rainfall washes away pollutants and stronger winds disperse emissions, making this period favourable for outdoor pursuits. However, extreme heat can still trigger ozone formation from industrial and vehicular sources. Autumn sees a rapid deterioration as agricultural burning resumes and meteorological conditions become stagnant, marking the onset of the high-pollution season.