Rising Pollution Levels in Delhi-NCR, Poor Air Quality in Several Indian Cities, AQI Likely to Worsen Near Diwali

According to the Central Pollution Control Board, air quality in Delhi and nearby NCR areas continues to deteriorate. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi stands at 255, indicating "poor" air quality, with neighbouring cities showing similar levels. Ghaziabad recorded an AQI of 256, Greater Noida at 232, Noida at 209, and Sonipat at 224. Faridabad was slightly better, with a “moderate” AQI of 170.

Most Polluted Cities in India

Many cities across India are also experiencing high pollution levels. Surat recorded the highest AQI at 281, marking it as "poor." Other heavily polluted cities include Karnal with an AQI of 232, Ahmedabad at 231, Amritsar at 228, and Nagaur at 217. Gwalior and Baghpat had AQIs of 211 and 209, respectively, while Jaipur recorded 203, all falling in the "poor" category.

Air Quality Status in Uttar Pradesh

Air quality in various cities in Uttar Pradesh remains concerning. Hapur recorded the highest AQI in the state at 259, marking "poor" air quality. Bulandshahr and Meerut followed with AQIs of 222 and 220. Meanwhile, Kanpur and Lucknow were in the "satisfactory" range with AQIs of 86 and 77, and Prayagraj and Varanasi reported "good" AQIs of 41 and 39. Experts predict that AQI levels in UP may increase sharply around Diwali.

AQI Levels in Major Indian Cities

Among other major cities, Mumbai recorded an AQI of 112, categorizing it as "moderate." Chennai and Kolkata reported "satisfactory" air quality with AQIs of 92 and 55. Bengaluru, Bhopal, Pune, and Hyderabad registered "moderate" AQIs of 148, 137, 113, and 102, respectively, indicating fair but still concerning air quality. As Diwali approaches, authorities are warning that AQI levels in these cities could worsen significantly due to increased emissions from firecrackers and seasonal changes.

Read More... Delhi and Maharashtra Air Quality Index (AQI) Across Major Cities