Top 10 Cities with Highest & Lowest AQI in India

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a critical measure of air pollution levels across Indian cities. Our real-time rankings show which cities have the highest AQI (most polluted) and lowest AQI (cleanest air) to help you make informed decisions about living, traveling, and protecting your health.

🔴 Cities with Highest AQI (Most Polluted Cities in India)

Indian cities frequently rank among the world's most polluted due to vehicular emissions, industrial activities, construction dust, and crop burning. The National Capital Region (NCR) including Delhi, Noida, Gurgaon, and Faridabad often experiences severe air pollution, especially during winter months. Other metropolitan areas like Kanpur, Lucknow, Patna, and Kolkata also struggle with poor air quality.

🟢 Cities with Lowest AQI (Cleanest Cities in India)

Cities with the best air quality in India are typically coastal areas, hill stations, and regions with lower industrial activity. Places like Shimla, Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Dehradun, and Shillong consistently maintain healthier AQI levels. These cities benefit from natural ventilation, forest cover, and strict environmental regulations.

📊 AQI Categories and Health Impact

🏙️ Major Indian Cities AQI Comparison

When comparing air quality across Indian cities, consider factors like seasonal variations, geographical location, and local pollution sources. Northern cities generally experience worse air quality during winter due to temperature inversion and crop residue burning. Coastal cities and hill stations typically maintain better air quality year-round.

💨 How to Protect Yourself in High AQI Cities

• Use air purifiers with HEPA filters indoors to remove PM2.5 and PM10 particles
• Wear N95 or N99 masks when stepping outside in polluted areas
• Avoid outdoor exercise during peak pollution hours (early morning and late evening)
• Keep windows closed during high pollution days
• Monitor real-time AQI levels through reliable sources
• Consider relocating to cities with better air quality for long-term health

🌍 Why AQI Rankings Matter

Understanding which cities have the highest and lowest AQI helps in making crucial life decisions - from choosing where to live, planning travel itineraries, to understanding your environmental health risks. Long-term exposure to high AQI levels increases risks of respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and reduced life expectancy.