Metropolitans across India have been grappling with a persistent pollution issue. These cities are registering ‘severe’ air quality. Air quality deterioration stems from various factors, including population growth, industrial and vehicular emissions and agricultural residual burning. Know the details of the most polluted cities in India and the essential considerations before investing in urban centres.
See also: Top 15 cleanest cities in India
Most polluted cities in India
India is one of the most polluted countries in the world. The high air quality index (AQI) levels denote how big a challenge the country faces. Here is a list of the most polluted cities in the country, as of November 21, 2023, according to the Central Pollution Control Board.
| City | Air quality index (AQI) |
| Bathinda | 383 |
| Bikaner | 372 |
| Sri Ganganagar | 369 |
| Dholpur | 368 |
| Hanumangarh | 368 |
| Bahadurgarh | 367 |
| Churu | 366 |
| Delhi | 364 |
| Tonk | 354 |
| Meerut | 354 |
Top cities with the poorest AQI
In addition to the aforementioned cities, which have recorded a poor AQI lately, the following cities experience poor AQI all through the year.
Delhi
Delhi is one of the most polluted cities globally, with elevated levels of air pollution. This is attributed to construction dust, vehicular and industrial emissions and agricultural burning in nearby states. The government has implemented measures to reduce vehicular movement, prohibited diesel generator use, encouraged cleaner fuels and initiated efforts to curb crop burning through awareness campaigns and subsidies.
Mumbai
Mumbai contends with heightened air pollution due to vehicular and industrial emissions, construction dust and waste incineration. Government interventions include enforcing strict emission standards for industries, promoting public transportation and enhancing green spaces across the city.
Kolkata
Kolkata experiences notable air pollution levels due to vehicular and industrial emissions, construction dust and biomass burning. Its proximity to the Bay of Bengal influences the air quality. The government has implemented air quality monitoring systems, stringent emission standards and measures to control vehicular emissions through regular maintenance checks and inspections.
Tips for home buyers and investors
Potential homebuyers and investors must exercise caution when investing in cities grappling with high pollution levels due to the associated health risks.
Check AQI
Before committing to an investment, assess the AQI of the locality. Opt for areas with comparatively better air quality, bearing in mind that pollution levels fluctuate across seasons due to factors like crop burning, industrial activities and weather patterns. If you have children, elderly individuals or members with respiratory conditions, weigh the health implications of exposure to elevated air pollution levels.
Carefully choose the locality
Steer clear of areas known for high pollution levels, including traffic junctions, industrial zones and construction sites. Instead, focus on purchasing property in localities with ample green spaces, offering improved air quality.
Stay informed about government initiatives
Prioritise investments in cities with proposed government initiatives aimed at addressing air pollution. Give preference to areas earmarked for future development projects, anticipating positive transformations in pollution levels.
FAQs
Which are the most polluted cities in India?
Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai are three of the most polluted cities in India.
Which city has the best air quality in India?
Some cities in India with the best air quality include Imphal, Mysore and Mangalore.
Where is the best place to live in India?
Some of the most liveable cities in India include Bangalore, Pune, Ahmedabad, Surat and Chennai.
What causes poor air quality?
The deterioration in air quality stems from various factors, including population growth, industrial and vehicular emissions and agricultural residual burning.
Which place in India has the cleanest air?
Ladakh has the cleanest air in India, followed by Arunachal Pradesh, Andaman and Nicobar, Kerala and Puducherry.
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