What was India's air quality like in 2025 according to the World Air Quality Report?

In 2025, India saw a marginal 3% improvement in its annual average PM2.5 concentration, reaching 48.9 µg/m³, though this is still nearly ten times the WHO guideline.

Which Indian city was the most polluted in 2025?

Loni in Uttar Pradesh was identified as India's most polluted city in 2025, with an annual average PM2.5 concentration of 112.5 µg/m³.

Why is PM2.5 a major concern for air quality?

PM2.5, fine particulate matter smaller than 2.5 microns, is a key pollutant tracked due to its severe impact on human health, originating from various sources like vehicle emissions and industrial activity.

Home / Environment / India's Air Quality Improves Marginally, Still Dangerously High

India's Air Quality Improves Marginally, Still Dangerously High

8 Apr

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Summary

India's PM2.5 levels are nearly ten times higher than WHO guidelines.
The nation ranks sixth globally for air pollution in 2025.
Loni in Uttar Pradesh was India's most polluted city in 2025.

India's Air Quality Improves Marginally, Still Dangerously High

India recorded a marginal 3% improvement in its annual average PM2.5 concentration in 2025, reaching 48.9 µg/m³. However, this level remains nearly ten times the World Health Organization's recommended guideline. Consequently, India is now positioned as the sixth most polluted country worldwide, highlighting persistent challenges despite incremental gains.

The latest World Air Quality Report, compiled from ground-level measurements, reveals that 17 of the world's 20 most polluted cities are in Central and South Asia. India is home to several of the most severely affected urban areas, with Loni in Uttar Pradesh identified as the most polluted city. Loni registered an annual average of 112.5 µg/m³, a significant increase from the previous year.