Where Air is Clean in India: India's Least and Most Polluted Cities
Delhi recorded an AQI of 373, making it India's most polluted city, followed by Lucknow (AQI 367) and Patna (AQI 249). In contrast, Aizawl (AQI 27), Guwahati (AQI 50), and Thiruvananthapuram (AQI 57) were ranked as the cleanest cities in terms of air quality. The central government has introduced flexible office hours and urged the use of public transport to curb pollution. Additionally, CAQM has revised GRAP guidelines, recommending school closures during severe pollution phases.
Where Air is Clean in India: Severely polluted air engulfs India's nation capital Delhi, and it tops the list of most polluted cities. On Friday, the city woke to a thick layer of smog that veiled the sky, and its Air Quality Index (AQI) remained in the "very poor" category at 373. Lucknow ranked second and Patna third with respective AQI 367 and 249.
While pollution grips most parts of the country, a few cities come as a breath of fresh air. The state capital Aizawl in Mizoram emerged the cleanest city in India with an AQI of just 27. In Assam, Guwahati follows at an AQI of 50, and the third spot belonged to Kerala's Thiruvananthapuram with an AQI of 57. These cities come out as beacons of clean air in a nation grappling with worsening environmental conditions.
AQI scale classifies air quality from "poor" (200-300) to "very poor" (301-400), and "severe" (401-450). In Delhi, the pollution levels have marginally improved from "severe" to "very poor" over recent days, but some places like Anand Vihar AQI 410, Bawana AQI 411, and Jahangirpuri AQI 426 are still in the "severe" category.
To tackle this crisis, the central government has initiated steps to curb vehicular emissions. Encouraging public transport, relaxation of working hours in offices, and flexible timing to avoid peak hours. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has also modified the Graded Response Action Plan. Under these new guidelines, schools in NCR may switch to online classes during extreme pollution stages, with restrictions starting at GRAP stage 3 for students up to grade 5, and stage 4 for those up to grade 12.
While cities like Aizawl set an example of clean air, the ongoing pollution crisis highlights the urgent need for comprehensive action to ensure breathable air across India.
