In a stark reminder of India’s worsening air quality crisis, all 40 of the world’s most polluted cities as of October 30, 2025, were Indian — based on Air Quality Index (AQI) readings taken at 8:30 AM.
Leading the list was Sri Ganganagar (Rajasthan) with an alarming AQI of 830, followed by Siwani (Haryana) at 644 and Abohar (Punjab) at 634. Surprisingly, Delhi, often the face of India’s pollution problem, ranked only 13th, though its AQI still exceeded 400, falling in the severe category.
Top 5 Most Polluted Cities (Oct 30, 2025)
- Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan – 830
- Siwani, Haryana – 644
- Abohar, Punjab – 634
- Hisar, Haryana – 477
- Churu, Rajasthan – 456
Why It’s Happening
Experts attribute the spike to a deadly mix of stubble burning, construction dust, vehicular emissions, and weakened atmospheric mixing due to dropping temperatures. Smoke from crop residue burning in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh has worsened particulate levels (PM₂.₅ and PM₁₀), turning much of North India into a hazardous air zone.
Health Impact
An AQI above 400 is considered severe, posing serious respiratory risks to all, especially children and the elderly. Doctors warn of a surge in asthma, bronchitis, and eye irritation cases as air quality continues to decline.
