Air pollution remains one of the biggest environmental threats globally, with India ranking among the most affected countries. According to the World Air Quality Report 2024, 13 out of the world’s top 20 most polluted cities are in India, highlighting a severe crisis that demands urgent action. From metropolitan hubs like Delhi and Noida to industrial towns like Bhiwadi and Faridabad, air pollution continues to pose significant health risks to millions of people.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi and other cities has frequently crossed hazardous levels, making everyday life difficult. But how did we get here? What factors contribute to such extreme pollution levels? And what steps can be taken to tackle this issue? Let’s explore.
The 13 Indian Cities in the World’s Top 20 Most Polluted Cities
Every year, the World Air Quality Report, published by IQAir, provides a detailed analysis of global pollution levels based on PM2.5 concentration. According to the 2024 report, India dominates the list of the world’s top 20 most polluted cities. The 13 Indian cities that top the list are –
- Byrnihat (Assam)
- Delhi
- Mullanpur (Punjab)
- Faridabad
- Loni
- New Delhi
- Gurugram
- Ganganagar
- Greater Noida
- Bhiwadi
- Muzaffarnagar
- Hanumangarh
- Noida
Apart from India, countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, Chad, and China also rank high on the list of the world’s top 20 most polluted cities in 2024.
Most Polluted City in the World (2024) – Lahore, Pakistan
Other Highly Polluted Cities – Hotan (China), Dhaka (Bangladesh), and Karachi (Pakistan).
This ranking highlights that Asian and African countries rank as the most polluted in the world, primarily due to rapid urbanization, industrialization, and lack of stringent pollution control measures.
What is the Rank of India in Pollution?
India has consistently ranked among the top 3 most polluted countries in the world. According to the Air Quality Index (AQI) rankings, many Indian cities frequently record AQI levels above 300, indicating hazardous conditions for public health.
Air Quality Index (AQI) – Delhi & Other Indian Cities
Delhi, often labeled the world’s most polluted city, continues to struggle with severe air pollution levels. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi often exceeds 500+ during winter months, reaching emergency levels.
| City | AQI Level (2024) | Pollution Category |
| Delhi | 400-500+ | Severe & Hazardous |
| Noida | 350-450 | Very Poor |
| Gurugram | 300-400 | Poor to Severe |
| Faridabad | 320-420 | Poor to Severe |
Why Are Indian Cities Among the Top 20 most polluted cities in the World
Several factors contribute to India’s most polluted cities list, including:
- Vehicular Emissions – The rapid rise in vehicle numbers, particularly in cities like Delhi, Noida, and Gurugram, leads to increased emissions of carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter.
- Industrial Pollution – Industrial zones in Faridabad, Bhiwadi, and Muzaffarnagar emit enormous amounts of pollutants. Factories and thermal power plants release toxic gases, worsening air quality.
- Construction Dust – The surge in infrastructure projects, especially in Greater Noida, Loni, and Delhi, leads to high levels of PM10 and PM2.5 in the air.
- Stubble Burning in North India – The seasonal practice of stubble burning in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh significantly worsens air pollution levels in Delhi NCR and nearby cities.
Which Country Has the Cleanest Air in the World?
On the other end of the spectrum, some nations have successfully maintained exceptionally clean air. The least polluted country in the world consistently includes:
- Iceland
- Finland
- Estonia
- New Zealand
- Australia
- Sweden
These countries have invested heavily in renewable energy, green infrastructure, and pollution control measures, making them some of the world’s least polluted countries.
Travel Abroad – Escape the Pollution & Experience Clean Air
With rising pollution levels in major cities worldwide, travelers are now looking for clean and less polluted travel destinations to enjoy nature, fresh air, and a healthier environment. Whether you’re planning a relaxing vacation, a study abroad journey, or a business trip, choosing a destination with low air pollution and high environmental standards can significantly enhance your experience.
Plus, if you’re traveling abroad, you’ll need reliable currency exchange and money transfer services – and that’s where Supreme Forex can help!
How Supreme Forex Can Help with Currency Exchange & Money Transfers
- Competitive Exchange Rates – Get better value than banks and airport counters with our real-time, low-margin rates.
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- Travel Forex Cards for a Hassle-Free Experience – Load multiple currencies on a forex travel card and enjoy cashless transactions. They are accepted worldwide and are safer than carrying cash.
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Travel Smart with Supreme Forex!
The fact that 13 out of the world’s top 20 most polluted cities are in India is a wake-up call for authorities and citizens alike. Without immediate intervention, air pollution will continue to harm millions of lives.
Exploring clean and pollution-free destinations is a great way to escape the environmental challenges of big cities. So, plan your next adventure to a clean, beautiful, and pollution-free destination, and let Supreme Forex handle all your currency exchange needs!
