Delhi and Lahore Trade Ranks as World's Most Polluted
New Delhi and Lahore recorded hazardous air quality levels this week, with Delhi briefly becoming the world's most polluted city amid seasonal winter smog.
Air pollution levels surged across northern India and Pakistan this week, with New Delhi and Lahore alternating as the world's most polluted cities. On November 12, Lahore recorded an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 344, with some areas reaching 671. The Pakistan Air Quality Initiative reported a 32% increase in pollution compared to the previous year, attributing the spike to low wind speeds and over 2,800 fire incidents.
By November 13, New Delhi overtook Lahore for the top spot. India's Central Pollution Control Board recorded a severe AQI of 403, while the Swiss monitoring group IQAir reported a hazardous level of 334. The pollution, driven by vehicle emissions, construction dust, and agricultural burning, reduced visibility and caused respiratory distress for residents. By Friday evening, Tehran and Bishkek surpassed Delhi in the rankings.
On November 14, the Central Pollution Control Board reported Delhi's AQI had shifted to 348, categorized as very poor, though several monitoring stations remained in the severe category. The Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi forecasts further deterioration. Economic analysis from Dalberg Global Development Advisors and the Clean Air Fund noted that air pollution cost the Indian economy approximately $260 billion in 2024, roughly 6% of its national GDP.
