Post-Diwali Pollution: 93 of World's 100 Most Polluted Cities in India
Post-Diwali Pollution: 93 of World's 100 Most Polluted Cities in India
IN · Published Nov 9, 2026
• Following Diwali celebrations, 93 of the world's 100 most polluted cities are located in India, according to recent air quality data.
• Rajasthan's Sri Ganganagar recorded the highest Air Quality Index (AQI) globally at 868, classified as hazardous.

Impact & Risks

The hazardous AQI levels pose severe health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. Prolonged exposure to such high pollution levels can lead to respiratory distress, aggravated asthma, and other health complications. The widespread nature of the pollution, affecting cities across multiple states, indicates a pressing need for comprehensive air quality management strategies. The situation is particularly concerning in cities like Sri Ganganagar, Faridkot, and Bathinda, where AQI levels have reached critical thresholds.

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