New Delhi Overtakes Lahore as World's Most Polluted City
New Delhi became the world's most polluted city on November 13, following a similar hazardous smog crisis in Lahore, Pakistan.
Air quality in South Asia deteriorated sharply this week, with New Delhi becoming the world's most polluted city on November 13, 2026. Dense smog blanketed the city of 20 million people, reducing visibility and obscuring street lights. Data on the crisis varied by source, with the Central Pollution Control Board recording a severe air quality index (AQI) of 403, while IQAir reported a hazardous level of 334.
This surge followed a similar crisis in Lahore, Pakistan, which held the title of most polluted city on November 12. In Lahore, the average AQI crossed 344, with some areas reaching 671. The Pakistan Air Quality Initiative reported that pollution in Lahore increased by 32% compared to the previous year, with particulate matter reaching 13.8 times World Health Organization guidelines. Other Punjab cities, including Multan and Bahawalpur, also recorded AQI levels exceeding 500.
Environmental agencies attribute the regional smog to seasonal winter conditions where cold, heavy air traps vehicle emissions, construction dust, and smoke from agricultural burning. In Pakistan, the deterioration was further linked to low wind speeds and 2,824 recorded fire incidents. While the Pakistan Meteorological Department forecast rainfall in southern Punjab to provide temporary relief, medical experts have urged residents in affected areas to wear masks and limit outdoor activities.
