Delhi Tops Global Pollution Rankings Post-Diwali as Air Quality Deteriorates

On the morning of November 1, 2024, Delhi was ranked as the world’s most polluted city by Swiss firm IQAir, following Diwali celebrations that spiked pollution levels across the region. Despite a government-imposed firecracker ban, many residents continued using fireworks, which worsened air quality and contributed to dense smog throughout the city.

The air quality index (AQI) in Delhi reached concerning levels, with Anand Vihar station recording an AQI of 388, categorized as “very poor.” Other areas, such as Aya Nagar (AQI 352), Jahangirpuri (AQI 390), and Dwarka (AQI 376), reflected similar hazardous levels, posing serious health risks for residents. These numbers placed Delhi at the top of IQAir’s real-time global pollution rankings.

Delhi Ranks as World's Most Polluted City Post-Diwali, AQI Soars Amid Firecracker Smog

Firecracker Ban Flouted Amid Health Concerns

Although the Delhi government has repeatedly banned firecrackers during Diwali to mitigate pollution, enforcement remains challenging, with compliance low in several areas. The seasonal crop burning in nearby states, especially in early winter, adds further pollutants to the air, creating a harmful mix of smog and poor visibility.

Air Quality Concerns Beyond Delhi

The effects of Diwali were also felt in other Indian cities, with regions like Mumbai and Chennai experiencing poor air quality. Residents in these areas are increasingly concerned about pollution levels associated with seasonal celebrations, which exacerbate existing air quality issues

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Top 10 Most Polluted Cities Worldwide

According to IQAir's global air quality rankings, the top 10 cities with the most polluted air as of November 1 include:

1. Delhi, India

2. Lahore, Pakistan

3. Beijing, China

4. Dhaka, Bangladesh

5. Wuhan, China

6. Mumbai, India

7. Kathmandu, Nepal

8. Baghdad, Iraq

9. Dubai, UAE

10. Karachi, Pakistan

    
    

Cold, dense winter air traps pollutants, worsening air quality further and posing prolonged health risks. With a growing population and increased urban activities, tackling pollution in these cities has become an urgent priority, as governments and citizens alike seek long-term solutions to mitigate the health impacts of poor air quality.