Post-Diwali air pollution has reached unprecedented levels, with a startling report revealing that 49 of the world's 50 most polluted cities are in India. Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan, has emerged as the world's most polluted city, recording a hazardous Air Quality Index (AQI) of 821. Lahore, Pakistan, is the sole non-Indian entry, ranking 14th with an AQI of 430.
The crisis extends nationwide. Delhi’s Chandni Chowk crossed 400, while severe pollution levels exceeding 400 were also reported in Bhopal, Ujjain, and Bahadurgarh. Noida and Ghaziabad recorded AQIs above 300. Combined with dropping winter temperatures, this smog trap severely threatens public health.
An AQI between 401 and 500 is classified as 'severe,' impacting both healthy individuals and those with pre-existing conditions. Amid mounting alarm, the Supreme Court has intervened strictly, demanding compliance reports from Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Haryana regarding actions against old and polluting vehicles.