World’s 20 most polluted cities in India, Delhi ranks 16th
CNN Central News and Networks / ITDC India ePress / ITDC News / Agencies, Bhopal:
The air pollution situation in the country is becoming increasingly serious. According to a global pollution ranking released on the morning of November 6, 2026, all the cities in the list of the world’s 20 most polluted cities are in India. Surprisingly, Delhi, which is often in the news for pollution, could not find a place even in the top 10. The national capital ranked 16th.
Meerut and Hapur at the top
According to the report, Meerut in Uttar Pradesh was the world’s most polluted city with an AQI of 727. Hapur reached second place with an AQI of 718. Hisar in Haryana stood third with an AQI of 631, while Bathinda in Punjab ranked fourth with an AQI of 627. Cities from Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Punjab dominated the list.
In Delhi, the AQI was recorded at 524 at 9:56 am, placing it 16th on the global list. However, this level too is extremely worrying from a health perspective.
Several causes behind the pollution
According to experts, smoke from vehicles, industrial emissions, dust from construction activities and smoke from stubble burning are among the major factors increasing pollution in northern India. In addition, slow wind speed and temperature layers in the atmosphere trap pollutants close to the ground, making the situation more severe.
Growing health risk
Fine particles such as PM2.5 present in the air can reach the lungs through breathing and can also enter the bloodstream. This increases the risk of respiratory and heart-related problems. Experts have advised people to avoid unnecessary outdoor movement during poor air quality and to use a good-quality mask when needed.
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