In 2023, Delhi was identified as the most polluted capital city in the world by a Swiss-based air-quality monitoring group. IQAir also reported that India, with Delhi as its capital, ranked as the third-most polluted country globally, following Bangladesh and Pakistan.
The country's air quality has deteriorated since 2022 when it ranked as the eighth most polluted country, according to the report. Air pollution is a severe issue in several Indian cities, with experts attributing the rise to rapid industrialization and weak enforcement of environmental laws. Despite significant development over the past few decades, poor industrial regulation means factories often neglect pollution-control measures, and rapid construction has further increased pollution levels..
IQAir's report indicated that India's average PM2.5 level—fine particulate matter that can clog lungs and cause numerous diseases—was 54.4 micrograms per cubic meter. Globally, air with PM2.5 levels of 12 to 15 micrograms per cubic meter is considered safe, while levels above 35 micrograms per cubic meter are deemed unhealthy. Delhi's air quality was even worse, with a PM2.5 reading of 92.7 micrograms per cubic meter.
Considering PM2.5 data, where the acceptable limit is less than 50, Delhi experiences nearly every month with levels exceeding this limit. However, the situation worsens from October to March, with average PM2.5 values exceeding 200.
*Although we maintained the highest quality standards in collecting the current data, we recommend validating it with government sites for the final decision.
Considering PM10 data, where the acceptable limit is <100, Delhi experiences over eight months with levels above this threshold. However, the situation worsens from October to March, with average PM10 values exceeding 150.
*Although we maintained the highest quality standards in collecting the current data, we recommend validating it with government sites for the final decision.
Delhi experiences poor air quality year-round, but it becomes particularly toxic in winter. Factors contributing to this include crop residue burning by farmers in nearby states, industrial and vehicular emissions, low wind speeds, and firecracker usage during festivals. Last year, the government had to close schools and colleges for several days due to the hazardous air.