In today’s rapidly evolving world, the issue of environmental pollution has taken center stage, with devastating consequences for both the planet and its inhabitants. One of the most alarming manifestations of this crisis is the prevalence of polluted cities around the globe. The World Health Organization estimates that approximately 91% of the world’s population resides in areas where air quality exceeds recommended limits. In this article, we will discuss about the most polluted city of the world.
Because of lax pollution control laws and substantial industrial activity, pollution is most common in middle- to low-income countries. Particulate Matter (PM2.5 and PM10) is a frequently used indicator for assessing overall pollution, particularly in connection to air quality. Lahore, Pakistan, holds the top spot in the list of the world’s most polluted cities, with an air pollution index of 97.4.
It is widely accepted that this pollution affects people more severely than any other. Particulate matter is defined as having a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less as PM2.5 and as having a diameter of 10 micrometers or less as PM10. In this context, the list of the “top 50 most polluted city of the world” serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for global action to combat pollution, protect public health, and safeguard the environment.
List of Top 50 Most Polluted City in the World
This list brings to light the cities facing the gravest environmental challenges, demanding immediate attention and comprehensive solutions. Here we will discuss about the top most polluted city of the world.
1. Lahore, Pakistan
Air Pollution Index: 97.4
Area: Western Asia
Lahore’s air pollution is primarily driven by industrial emissions, vehicular exhaust, and the practice of burning crop residues in nearby agricultural areas, especially during the winter. The combination of these factors, along with geographical conditions that trap pollutants, often leads to dangerous smog episodes.
The resulting high levels of particulate matter and smog pose significant health risks to the city’s residents, including respiratory illnesses and cardiovascular problems. The government of Punjab has initiated measures to combat pollution, such as promoting cleaner energy sources and regulating industrial emissions.
2. Hotan, China
Air Pollution Index: 94.3
Area: Southeast Asia
Located in Xinjiang, Hotan faces air quality issues primarily due to industrial emissions and frequent dust storms originating from the surrounding arid regions. These dust storms can introduce large amounts of particulate matter into the atmosphere, leading to reduced air quality.
The Chinese government has implemented various measures to control dust and industrial pollution in the region, but challenges persist due to the arid climate. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
3. Bhiwadi, India
Air Pollution Index: 92.7
Area: Western Asia
Bhiwadi, an industrial hub in Rajasthan, experiences high levels of air pollution driven by industrial emissions, construction dust, and vehicular traffic. The presence of numerous manufacturing units and construction projects contributes to the release of pollutants.
The city’s residents often suffer from respiratory issues and other health problems due to prolonged exposure to poor air quality. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
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4. Delhi (NCT), India
Air Pollution Index: 92.6
Area: Western Asia
Delhi’s air quality challenges are well-documented. The city contends with a complex mix of factors, including vehicular emissions from a large and growing population, construction activities, industrial pollution, and the seasonal practice of crop residue burning in the neighboring states of Punjab and Haryana.
During the winter, temperature inversions and calm wind conditions worsen air quality, leading to the formation of hazardous smog. Delhi has implemented measures such as the Odd-Even vehicle scheme, banning the use of firecrackers during festivals, and promoting the use of compressed natural gas (CNG) for public transport to combat air pollution.
5. Peshawar, Pakistan
Air Pollution Index: 91.8
Area: Western Asia
Peshawar faces air quality challenges similar to Lahore, with industrial emissions, vehicular pollution, and agricultural burning contributing to poor air quality.
The city’s location in a valley can exacerbate pollution issues, as pollutants become trapped in the basin, leading to prolonged exposure for residents.
6. Darbhanga, India
Air Pollution Index: 90.3
Area: Western Asia
Darbhanga’s air quality issues are primarily attributed to vehicular emissions, construction activities, and local industrial sources. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
The city’s infrastructure and regulatory framework may not be as robust as in larger urban centers, which can hinder efforts to combat air pollution effectively.
7. Asopur, India
Air Pollution Index: 90.2
Area: Western Asia
Asopur, while not widely known, faces local air pollution challenges mainly associated with nearby industrial activities, vehicular emissions, and agricultural practices.
These localized sources contribute to poor air quality for residents. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
8. N’Djamena, Chad
Air Pollution Index: 89.7
Area: Central Africa
N’Djamena, situated in a desert region, contends with dust and sandstorms as the primary sources of air pollution. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
These storms introduce large quantities of particulate matter into the air. Efforts to combat this type of pollution often involve dust control measures and urban planning strategies.
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9. New Delhi, India
Air Pollution Index: 89.1
Area: Western Asia
As a part of the National Capital Territory, New Delhi shares its air quality challenges with Delhi. The city experiences severe smog during the winter months due to a combination of factors, including crop residue burning, vehicular emissions, and industrial pollution.
The Delhi government has implemented initiatives such as the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to tackle air pollution. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
10. Patna, India
Air Pollution Index: 88.9
Area: Western Asia
Patna, the capital of Bihar, faces air pollution challenges similar to those of other Indian cities. Vehicular emissions, construction dust, and industrial activities contribute to poor air quality.
The city’s efforts to address these issues include introducing CNG-based public transport and implementing construction dust control measures. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
11. Ghaziabad, India
Air Pollution Index: 88.6
Area: Western Asia
Ghaziabad, a city in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, is one of the most polluted cities in the world. It shares its air quality concerns with neighboring Delhi due to its proximity. Ghaziabad faces high levels of air pollution from various sources, including industrial emissions, vehicular traffic, and agricultural activities.
The city often experiences severe smog during the winter months, leading to hazardous air quality. The government has been implementing measures to curb pollution, including stricter emission standards and efforts to control dust and industrial emissions.
12. Dharuhera, India
Air Pollution Index: 87.8
Area: Western Asia
Dharuhera, located in the Indian state of Haryana, is an emerging industrial and residential hub. Rapid urbanization and industrialization have led to increased air pollution in the region. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
The city’s air quality is adversely affected by vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, and construction dust. Efforts are needed to improve the region’s air quality through stricter regulations and sustainable urban planning.
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13. Baghdad, Iraq
Air Pollution Index: 86.7
Area: Middle East
Baghdad, the capital of Iraq, faces air pollution challenges resulting from a combination of factors. These include vehicular emissions, industrial activities, dust storms, and limited green spaces.
Political instability in the region has also hindered efforts to address environmental issues. Reducing air pollution in Baghdad requires a coordinated approach, including better urban planning, stricter regulations, and investment in cleaner technologies.
14. Chapra, India
Air Pollution Index: 85.9
Area: Western Asia
Chapra, a city in the Indian state of Bihar, grapples with air pollution primarily caused by vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and construction dust. The city’s air quality can deteriorate significantly during the dry and windy seasons when dust becomes more airborne.
Local authorities should focus on regulating emissions and promoting sustainable construction practices to mitigate air pollution. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
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15. Muzaffarnagar, India
Air Pollution Index: 85.5
Area: Western Asia
Muzaffarnagar, located in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, faces air quality issues linked to industrial emissions, agricultural activities, and vehicular traffic. The city’s air quality deteriorates during the winter months, often reaching hazardous levels.
Efforts to combat pollution should include stricter emission controls, promoting clean energy sources, and raising public awareness about the health risks associated with poor air quality.
16. Faisalabad, Pakistan
Air Pollution Index: 84.5
Area: Western Asia
Faisalabad, often referred to as the “Manchester of Pakistan” due to its textile industry, struggles with severe air pollution. Industrial emissions, particularly from textile mills, vehicular exhaust, and agricultural practices, contribute to poor air quality.
The city’s residents are at risk of respiratory illnesses and other health problems due to prolonged exposure to pollution. Transitioning to cleaner technologies and improving industrial practices are essential steps to address air pollution in Faisalabad.
17. Greater Noida, India
Air Pollution Index: 83.2
Area: Western Asia
Greater Noida, part of the National Capital Region (NCR) in India, faces air quality challenges similar to Delhi and its satellite cities. Vehicular emissions, construction dust, and industrial pollution are major contributors to poor air quality.
The city has been implementing measures such as tree planting initiatives, but regional cooperation and stricter enforcement of pollution control measures are needed to improve air quality.
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18. Bahadurgarh, India
Air Pollution Index: 82.2
Area: Western Asia
Bahadurgarh, located in Haryana, is another city grappling with air pollution. Vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and construction dust are significant sources of pollution.
The city’s proximity to Delhi adds to its pollution burden. Addressing air quality issues in Bahadurgarh requires comprehensive policies, including better public transportation options and stricter emissions standards.
19. Faridabad, India
Air Pollution Index: 79.7
Area: Western Asia
Faridabad, part of the NCR, experiences air pollution challenges associated with industrial emissions, vehicular traffic, and construction dust. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
The city has implemented measures to improve air quality, such as introducing CNG-based public transport. However, sustained efforts are needed to combat pollution effectively.
20. Muzaffarpur, India
Air Pollution Index: 79.2
Area: Western Asia
Muzaffarpur, a city in the state of Bihar, faces air quality issues primarily related to vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and agricultural practices. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
Like many smaller Indian cities, Muzaffarpur requires improved urban planning, emissions controls, and public awareness campaigns to tackle air pollution.
21. Noida, India
Air Pollution Index: 78.7
Area: Western Asia
Noida, a part of the National Capital Region (NCR) in India, grapples with air pollution issues similar to its neighboring cities. Vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and construction dust are primary contributors to poor air quality.
The city has been implementing measures such as promoting cleaner transportation options and tree planting drives to combat air pollution. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
22. Jind, India
Air Pollution Index: 77.9
Area: Western Asia
Jind, located in the northern Indian state of Haryana, faces air quality challenges associated with vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and agricultural practices.
Like many other cities in the region, Jind experiences deteriorating air quality during the winter months. Addressing pollution in Jind requires stricter emissions controls and sustainable agricultural practices.
23. Karagandy, Kazakhstan
Air Pollution Index: 77.8
Area: Central Asia
Karagandy, a major industrial city in Kazakhstan, contends with air pollution primarily driven by heavy industry and mining activities. The city’s residents are exposed to high levels of particulate matter and other pollutants, leading to health concerns.
Efforts to improve air quality in Karagandy involve modernizing industrial processes and enforcing stricter environmental regulations. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
24. Charkhi Dadri, India
Air Pollution Index: 77.4
Area: Western Asia
Charkhi Dadri, situated in Haryana, faces air pollution issues related to industrial emissions, vehicular exhaust, and construction dust. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
The city’s air quality deteriorates during the dry and windy seasons, contributing to respiratory problems among residents. Measures to address pollution should include better urban planning and emissions controls.
25. Rohtak, India
Air Pollution Index: 74.7
Area: Western Asia
Rohtak, another city in Haryana, grapples with air quality challenges linked to industrial activities, vehicular emissions, and construction dust. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
Improving air quality in Rohtak requires a comprehensive approach, including transitioning to cleaner energy sources and stricter emissions standards.
26. Gaya, India
Air Pollution Index: 74.3
Area: Western Asia
Gaya, located in the state of Bihar, faces air pollution primarily from vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and construction dust. The city’s air quality issues are exacerbated during the dry season.
To combat pollution, Gaya should focus on promoting cleaner transportation options and implementing dust control measures. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
27. Alampur, India
Air Pollution Index: 74.1
Area: Western Asia
Alampur, a smaller city in India, may experience localized air pollution problems due to nearby industrial activities and vehicular emissions. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
While not as well-known as larger cities, addressing pollution in Alampur is crucial for the health and well-being of its residents. This includes regulating local industrial emissions and promoting cleaner technologies.
28. Kurukshetra, India
Air Pollution Index: 73.8
Area: Western Asia
Kurukshetra, also located in Haryana, faces air quality challenges similar to other cities in the region, including industrial emissions, vehicular pollution, and construction dust.
The city’s historical and cultural significance makes it important to protect its environment and public health. Strategies to combat pollution in Kurukshetra should include stricter emissions standards and urban planning.
29. Bhiwani, India
Air Pollution Index: 73.5
Area: Western Asia
Bhiwani, another city in Haryana, deals with air pollution primarily caused by industrial emissions, vehicular exhaust, and construction activities. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
The city’s air quality issues require attention through regulatory measures and awareness campaigns to reduce pollution sources.
30. Kashgar, China
Air Pollution Index: 73.4
Area: Southeast Asia
Kashgar, located in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China, faces air quality challenges due to industrial emissions, vehicular traffic, and the region’s arid climate, which can lead to dust storms.
Addressing pollution in Kashgar involves controlling emissions from industries, promoting cleaner transportation options, and managing dust and sandstorms. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
31. Meerut, India
Air Pollution Index: 72.6
Area: Western Asia
Meerut, a city in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, experiences air pollution mainly due to industrial emissions, vehicular traffic, and construction activities. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
Like many cities in the National Capital Region (NCR), Meerut grapples with poor air quality, particularly during the winter months. Mitigating pollution in Meerut requires stringent emissions controls and efforts to promote cleaner transportation options.
32. Hisar, India
Air Pollution Index: 72.3
Area: Western Asia
Hisar, located in Haryana, deals with air quality issues associated with industrial emissions, vehicular exhaust, and agricultural practices. The city’s air quality can deteriorate during the post-harvest season due to crop residue burning in nearby areas.
Hisar needs a comprehensive approach, including stricter emission standards and sustainable agricultural practices. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
33. Bhagalpur, India
Air Pollution Index: 72.1
Area: Western Asia
Bhagalpur, situated in the Indian state of Bihar, faces air pollution challenges primarily related to vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and construction dust.
The city’s air quality can deteriorate during the dry and windy seasons. Addressing pollution in Bhagalpur requires the promotion of cleaner transportation options and dust control measures.
34. Yumananagar, India
Air Pollution Index: 72
Area: Western Asia
Yamunanagar, located in Haryana, deals with air quality issues linked to industrial emissions, vehicular exhaust, and construction dust. The city’s air quality can be adversely affected during industrial operations.
Measures to improve air quality in Yamunanagar should include transitioning to cleaner energy sources and stricter emissions controls. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
35. Bahawalpur, Pakistan
Air Pollution Index: 71.4
Area: Western Asia
Bahawalpur, a city in Pakistan’s Punjab province, faces air pollution challenges primarily due to industrial emissions, vehicular exhaust, and agricultural practices. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
Like many other cities in the region, Bahawalpur’s residents are at risk of health problems due to prolonged exposure to poor air quality. Addressing pollution in Bahawalpur involves regulating industrial emissions and promoting cleaner technologies.
36. Bulandshahr, India
Air Pollution Index: 70.9
Area: Western Asia
Bulandshahr, located in Uttar Pradesh, grapples with air pollution mainly caused by industrial emissions, vehicular pollution, and construction activities. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
The city’s air quality can deteriorate during industrial operations and during the dry season. Strategies to combat pollution should include stricter emissions standards and dust control measures.
37. Hajipur, India
Air Pollution Index: 70.4
Area: Western Asia
Hajipur, a smaller city in Bihar, may experience localized air pollution problems due to industrial activities and vehicular emissions. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
Measures to address pollution in Hajipur should focus on regulating local industrial emissions and promoting cleaner technologies.
38. Gurugram, India
Air Pollution Index: 70
Area: Western Asia
Gurugram, also known as Gurgaon, is a major financial and technology hub located in Haryana, just south of Delhi. The city faces severe air pollution problems due to rapid urbanization, industrial emissions, vehicular traffic, and construction dust.
Gurugram’s air quality often ranks among the worst in the world. The city has implemented various measures, including stricter emissions standards, tree planting initiatives, and efforts to improve public transportation, to combat air pollution.
39. Lohar Majra Kalan, India
Air Pollution Index: 70
Area: Western Asia
Lohar Majra Kalan, a smaller town in India, may experience localized air pollution issues, primarily related to industrial activities and vehicular emissions.
Local authorities should focus on regulating emissions from local industries and promoting cleaner technologies. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
40. Dadri, India
Air Pollution Index: 69.3
Area: Western Asia
Dadri, located in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, faces air pollution challenges linked to industrial emissions, vehicular exhaust, and construction dust.
The city’s air quality can be adversely affected during industrial operations. Efforts to improve air quality in Dadri include transitioning to cleaner energy sources and stricter emissions controls.
41. Kaithal, India
Air Pollution Index: 68.7
Area: Western Asia
Kaithal, located in the northern Indian state of Haryana, grapples with air pollution primarily due to industrial emissions, vehicular traffic, and agricultural activities. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
Like many other cities in the region, Kaithal faces poor air quality, particularly during the dry and windy seasons. Efforts to combat pollution should include stricter emissions controls, sustainable agricultural practices, and promoting cleaner transportation options.
42. Faridkot, India
Air Pollution Index: 68.4
Area: Western Asia
Faridkot, situated in the Indian state of Punjab, experiences air quality issues linked to vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and agricultural practices. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
The city’s air quality can deteriorate during the post-harvest season due to crop residue burning in nearby areas. Addressing pollution in Faridkot requires a comprehensive approach, including stricter emission standards and sustainable agricultural practices.
43. Fatehgarh Sahib, India
Air Pollution Index: 68.1
Area: Western Asia
Fatehgarh Sahib, another city in Punjab, deals with air quality challenges primarily caused by vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and construction dust.
The city’s air quality can worsen during industrial operations and construction activities. Strategies to combat pollution should include stricter emissions standards and dust control measures.
44. Hapur, India
Air Pollution Index: 68.1
Area: Western Asia
Hapur, located in Uttar Pradesh, faces air pollution primarily due to industrial emissions, vehicular pollution, and construction activities. The city’s air quality can deteriorate during industrial operations and the dry season.
Efforts to improve air quality in Hapur should include transitioning to cleaner energy sources and stricter emissions controls. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
45. Jayant, India
Air Pollution Index: 67.8
Area: Western Asia
Jayant is a smaller town located in the Singrauli district of Madhya Pradesh, India. The region is known for its coal mines and associated industrial activities, which contribute significantly to air pollution.
The town’s residents often face the health risks associated with exposure to high levels of particulate matter and pollutants from coal mining and combustion. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
46. Ambala, India
Air Pollution Index: 67.1
Area: Western Asia
Ambala, located in Haryana, faces air quality challenges related to industrial emissions, vehicular exhaust, and construction dust. The city’s air quality can be adversely affected during industrial operations and the dry season.
Addressing pollution in Ambala requires stricter emissions standards and dust control measures. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
47. Manama, Bahrain
Air Pollution Index: 66.6
Area: Middle East
Manama, the capital city of Bahrain, faces air pollution challenges primarily linked to vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and construction dust. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
The city’s air quality can deteriorate due to the rapid urbanization and industrialization in the region. Addressing pollution in Manama involves regulatory measures to control emissions and promote cleaner technologies.
48. Kanpur, India
Air Pollution Index: 66.2
Area: Western Asia
Kanpur, a major industrial city in Uttar Pradesh, is notorious for its poor air quality. Industrial emissions, vehicular traffic, and construction dust are major contributors to pollution in the city.
Kanpur’s residents are at risk of respiratory illnesses and other health problems due to prolonged exposure to poor air quality. Efforts to combat pollution in Kanpur include stricter emissions controls, sustainable urban planning, and public awareness campaigns.
49. Dhaka, Bangladesh
Air Pollution Index: 65.8
Area: Western Asia
Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh, grapples with severe air pollution due to a combination of factors, including high population density, heavy traffic congestion, industrial emissions, and construction activities.
The city’s air quality often ranks among the worst in the world, leading to significant health risks for its residents. Dhaka needs comprehensive strategies to reduce emissions, improve public transportation, and enforce environmental regulations.
50. Fatehabad, India
Air Pollution Index: 65.7
Area: Western Asia
Fatehabad, located in Haryana, faces air quality issues primarily related to industrial emissions, vehicular pollution, and construction dust. It is one of the most polluted city of the world.
The city’s air quality can deteriorate during industrial operations and dry conditions. Strategies to combat pollution should include stricter emissions standards and dust control measures.
Conclusion
The compilation of the “Top 50 Most Polluted City in the World” underscores the gravity of the environmental crisis we face today. These cities are not just statistics; they represent millions of lives adversely affected by pollution. It is imperative that governments, communities, and individuals come together to address this issue comprehensively. Measures such as transitioning to cleaner energy sources, improving public transportation, and implementing stricter environmental regulations are essential steps in mitigating pollution levels.
The health of our planet and the well-being of its inhabitants depend on our collective efforts to reduce pollution and create a sustainable future for all. Only through united action can we hope to see a day when this list becomes a relic of the past, replaced by a new roster of cities leading the way towards cleaner, healthier environments. We hope this list of top 50 most polluted city in the world helps you.
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