India has now become the world’s most polluted country. According to the latest Air Quality Index (AQI) live data, 70 of the top 75 most polluted cities are in India. Polluted air is not limited to Delhi or Mumbai. From small towns in Punjab and Uttar Pradesh to big cities across India, almost every region is struggling to breathe clean air due this chocking smoke.
Siktaur Is the Most Polluted City in the World
The city of Siktaur has recorded the worst air quality globally with a “hazardous” AQI of 1013. It is followed by Khalilabad (955) and Balloh (788).
Other cities such as Barnala, Khairabad, Nagli Bahrampur, Faizabad, and Gorakhpur are also among the top 10 most polluted cities, each recording an AQI above 500.
The only non-Indian city in the top 15 list is Lumbini Sanskritik in Nepal, ranked 13th.
93 Indian Cities in the World’s Top 100
A total of 93 out of the top 100 most polluted cities are in India. This shows that the crisis has spread beyond metro areas. Smaller Tier-2 and Tier-3 towns are also facing severe pollution but receive less attention.
Delhi and NCR Struggle With Hazardous Air
In the National Capital Region, Delhi’s air quality remains “hazardous.” Neighboring cities such as Ghaziabad, Noida, Faridabad, and Panipat are also recording dangerous pollution levels.
Experts Point to Multiple Causes
Environmental experts blame a combination of factors for the worsening air.
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Stubble burning in northern states
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Construction dust and lack of regulation
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Vehicle emissions from traffic
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Weather conditions that trap pollutants near the ground
These factors together have created a thick toxic layer over many Indian cities.
A Growing Public Health Emergency
This is no longer just an environmental issue it’s a public health crisis. Millions of people are breathing harmful air every day. Schools are closing early due to smog, and many citizens have accepted constant coughing and breathing issues as part of winter life.
A Grim Warning for the Country
The data sends a strong message air pollution is no longer seasonal. It has become a national problem and if you think your city is safe just because it’s far from Delhi check again. Chances are, it’s on the list too.
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