South Asia continues to grapple with severe air pollution as Bangladesh and Pakistan top the list of the world’s most polluted countries in 2024, with India ranking third, according to data from AQI.in. The annual Air Quality Index (AQI) report reveals that Bangladesh recorded an average AQI of 140, followed by Pakistan at 115, while India reported 111, all falling in the ‘poor’ category.
South Asia Dominates the Pollution Rankings
Among the top 10 most polluted countries, South Asian and Middle Eastern nations dominate. Bahrain (AQI 103) and Nepal (AQI 100) take the fourth and fifth spots, respectively. Egypt is the only non-Asian country in the top 10, ranking sixth with an AQI of 91. Other nations on the list include UAE, Kuwait, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan.
New Delhi – The World’s Most Polluted City
India’s capital, New Delhi, has once again ranked as the most polluted city in the world, with an annual average AQI of 169 (‘unhealthy’ category). Other cities in the Delhi-NCR region, including Greater Noida (AQI 166), Noida (AQI 161), Ghaziabad (AQI 159), and Faridabad (AQI 154), make up the top five most polluted cities globally.
North Indian cities dominate the top 10 most polluted cities list, with Gurgaon, Bhiwadi, Patna, Sonipat, and Muzaffarnagar also featuring. Dhaka, Bangladesh, is the only non-Indian city in the top 17, ranking 13th with an AQI of 140.
Why is Pollution Worsening?
Experts attribute rising pollution levels to industrial emissions, vehicular pollution, construction dust, and stubble burning in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. During winters, low temperatures and stagnant air further trap pollutants, making the situation worse.
While governments have taken steps such as smog towers, odd-even vehicle policies, and green fuel initiatives, the long-term impact remains negligible. Environmentalists warn that unless stricter measures are implemented, South Asia will continue to choke under toxic air.
With rising cases of respiratory diseases, reduced life expectancy, and worsening air quality, the big question remains—will authorities take real action, or will clean air continue to be a privilege for a few?
