Most Polluted Cities: Over the recent weeks, Northern India has grappled with a concerning issue – air pollution. Various cities, including Begusarai, Bahadurgarh, and Dholpur in states like Bihar, Rajasthan, and Haryana, have been facing a significant deterioration in air quality, marked as “very poor.” The air quality index (AQI) levels have surged beyond 370 in these areas, reflecting a critical pollution crisis.
Top 10 Most Polluted Cities in India
India, being one of the most crowded countries, grapples with significant challenges. Its major cities consistently rank among the most polluted globally, and sticking to outdated air quality standards isn’t just a number game. It directly affects the health of millions of people. This situation is alarming, and the latest statistics underscore the enormity of the issue. Check out the list below for more insights:
| Top 10 Most Polluted Cities in India | ||
| Rank | City | Air Quality Index (AQI) |
| 1 | New Delhi | 483 |
| 2 | Faridabad | 354 |
| 3 | Ghaziabad | 344 |
| 4 | Hisar | 342 |
| 5 | Gurgaon | 311 |
| 6 | Noida | 301 |
| 7 | Rohtak | 292 |
| 8 | Sonipat | 260 |
| 9 | Bhiwani | 253 |
| 10 | Meerut | 220 |
In Northern India, the main causes of air pollution stem from a combination of factors such as vehicle emissions, industrial discharges, and agricultural burning. These elements contribute to the creation of particulate matter (PM), posing a significant health risk.
Disturbingly, data from Swiss Group IQAir reveals that New Delhi has earned the unfortunate title of the world’s most polluted city. The Air Quality Index in the city has reached a concerning 483, solidifying its position as not just India’s most polluted city but also the most polluted globally. Following closely behind are Lahore in Pakistan and Kolkata in India in this unsettling list.
Also Read: Monitoring Delhi Air Pollution and Weather: Apps for AQI Data Tracking
Most Polluted City in the World 2023
Delhi NCR is one of the polluted cities in India. The air quality in the Delhi-NCR region has worsened due to various factors like dropping temperatures, stubble burning, and low wind speed. This has created a thick haze causing respiratory issues for residents.
To tackle this, the area is now in stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan, a serious initiative to fight pollution. Even schools had to close temporarily for two days to protect students’ health.
In October 2023, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) revealed alarming data about Delhi’s air quality. This year’s October air quality was the worst since 2020, with meteorologists attributing it to a lack of rain.
The capital recorded an AQI of 210, higher than the same month last year (210) and October 2021 (173), according to the CPCB. These figures highlight the ongoing struggle with air pollution in Delhi, emphasizing the urgent need for strict measures to address this environmental crisis.
Impact of Air Pollution
Air pollution poses a considerable threat to our well-being. Inhaling particulate matter (PM) can result in various respiratory issues like asthma, bronchitis, and even lung cancer. Furthermore, it worsens cardiovascular conditions.
Beyond affecting our health, air pollution takes a toll on our economy. It diminishes productivity and raises healthcare expenses, creating a significant economic burden.
How to Address Air Pollution?
Mitigating air pollution in Polluted Cities in Northern India involves a range of effective actions. These encompass:
- Encouraging the adoption of public transportation and cleaner fuels.
- Implementing more rigorous emission standards for both vehicles and industries.
- Advocating for sustainable agricultural methods.
- Boosting tree cover across the region.
Although tackling air pollution poses a multifaceted challenge, it is crucial to safeguard the health and well-being of Northern India’s residents.
Top 10 Most Polluted Cities in India FAQs
Q.1. What is the current Air Quality Index (AQI) in New Delhi?
Ans. The latest data indicates an AQI of 483 in New Delhi, marking it as the world’s most polluted city.
Q.2. Which factors contribute to air pollution in Northern India?
Ans. Air pollution in Northern India is primarily caused by vehicle emissions, industrial discharges, and agricultural burning.
Q.3. What are the top three most polluted cities in India according to recent statistics?
Ans. New Delhi, Faridabad, and Ghaziabad are the top three most polluted cities in India, with respective AQI levels.
Q.4. How is the Delhi-NCR region addressing air pollution?
Ans. The region has implemented Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan, including measures like temporary school closures and potential restrictions on vehicular movement.
Q.5. Why is the lack of rain in October 2023 concerning for Delhi’s air quality?
Ans. The absence of rain in October 2023 has contributed to a spike in air pollution levels, as rain helps clear pollutants from the air.
