Top 5 cities in India with net pollution

Among the smog-filled cities where Delhi is one of the most polluted cities in India, there are also urban oases yearning for cleaner air and green spaces.

According to the World Air Quality Report, Delhi ranks second in the world after Beijing with an AQI score of 168, indicating unhealthy air quality.

First of all, three Indian cities—Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata—consistently rank among the most polluted cities in the world due to high levels of vehicle emissions and industrial pollution.

Often referred to as “pollution-free” cities, these cities set examples of sustainable living and environmental stewardship. Let’s explore some of these eco-friendly cities and uncover the secrets to their environmental success.

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3. Aizawl

Aizawl, the capital of Mizoram state, located in northeast India, has an impressive AQI score of 25, making it one of the least polluted cities in the country.

This level of air quality reflects effective environmental management and community participation in sustainable development practices.

Compared to the WHO air quality guideline of 5 µg/m³ for PM2.5, the air in Aizawl remains remarkably clean with an average PM2.5 concentration of just 9.9 µg/m³.

The city’s altitude and lush surroundings promote natural ventilation and reduce pollution. Local initiatives aimed at waste management and public awareness further strengthen Aizawl’s reputation as a clean city that provides a healthy living environment for residents.

4. Ramanathapuram

Ramanathapuram is located in the state of Tamil Nadu and has an AQI score of 25, making it one of the least polluted cities in India. A rating of “good” indicates that air quality is maintained in good condition and is safe for residents.

The air quality in Ramanathapuram is significantly better than many urban centres, at around 10 µg/m³, which is significantly better than the WHO recommended limit of 5 µg/m³ for PM2.5.

Factors contributing to its cleanliness include low industrial activity and abundant green space, which helps absorb pollutants.

Public participation in cleanliness campaigns and environmental awareness campaigns further enhances the city’s appeal as a pollution-free destination.

5. Chikkaballapur

Chikkaballapur is located in Karnataka and has an AQI score of 28, which qualifies it as a city with good air quality. This level indicates minimal pollution and a healthy environment for its inhabitants.

The WHO sets the recommended limit for PM2.5 at 5 µg/m³; thus, the air quality in Chikkaballapur is commendable compared to many other regions (around 11 µg/m³).

The city’s commitment to sustainable practices and reducing industrial emissions is critical to maintaining this status.

Moreover, the presence of greenery around Chikkaballapur promotes clean air by effectively filtering pollutants.

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6. Madikeri

Madikeri is located in Karnataka and has an AQI score of 29, making it one of the cleanest cities in India in terms of air quality. This rating falls into the “Good” category, meaning residents experience minimal levels of pollution.

Compared to the WHO recommended AQI of 5 µg/m³ for PM2.5, air quality in Madikeri remains favorable at approximately 12 µg/m³, which is well above the WHO recommended limit and indicates good air quality overall.

The city’s lush landscapes and low industrial activity are important factors contributing to its cleanliness.

Local initiatives that promote environmental awareness and waste management also play a vital role in preserving Madikeri’s pristine environment.

7. Madurai

Madurai is another city in Tamil Nadu that boasts an AQI score of 29, placing it among the least polluted cities in India. This “good” rating indicates that the city maintains healthy levels of air quality for its residents.

WHO recommends an AQI of 5 µg/m³ for PM2.5; thus, the air quality in Madurai is commendable when compared to many urban areas across the country.

The city maintains healthy levels of air quality for residents, with PM2.5 concentrations around 12 µg/m³.

Factors such as reductions in industrial emissions and community participation in environmental initiatives help maintain this clean status. In addition, Madurai’s green spaces help filter pollutants effectively.

8. Chikkamagaluru

Chikkamagaluru is located in the state of Karnataka and has an Air Quality Index of 30, which categorizes it as a city with good air quality standards in India. This rating reflects minimal pollution levels with PM2.5 concentrations of approximately 13 µg/m³.

Compared to the WHO recommended PM2.5 limit of 5 µg/m³, the air in Chikkamagaluru remains relatively clean.

The city’s natural environment and low industrial activity play an important role in maintaining this status.

The community’s efforts towards environmental sustainability enhance the attractiveness of Chikkamagaluru as an eco-friendly destination with a healthy environment for residents.

9. Gangtok

Gangtok is located in Sikkim and has an Air Quality Index of 30, making it one of the least polluted cities in India with commendable air quality standards.

This rating falls under the “Good” category, which indicates that residents have minimal levels of pollution compared to many urban centers across India.

WHO recommends maintaining AQI below 5 µg/m³ for PM2.5. However, the rating corresponds to a PM2.5 concentration of about 13 µg/m³. This is noticeably better than many urban centers across India, but still above the WHO recommended limit.

Factors contributing to this cleanliness include the elevated location and surrounding natural landscapes, which help filter pollutants effectively.

10. Nagaon

Nagaon is located in Assam and has an AQI score of 30, making it one of the cleanest cities in India in terms of air quality standards.

This rating means good air quality with minimal pollution for its residents.

Compared to the WHO recommended PM2.5 limit of 5 µg/m³, Nagaon’s air remains relatively clean and safe for residents with a PM2.5 concentration of around 13 µg/m³.

Factors contributing to this include low industrial activity and extensive green spaces, which help effectively reduce pollution levels while promoting community participation in environmental initiatives, further enhancing Nagaon’s appeal as a pollution-free city.

Also read | 10 Most Polluted Cities in India (2024) | Delhi tops the list