Most Polluted Cities in the World (Updated List)

Lahore is the most polluted city in the world as per the 2024 ranking. Lahore is a city in Pakistan that has an AQI level of 437. Dhaka is the second most polluted city in the world with an AQI of 385. Air pollution is the cause of nearly 9 million people on the earth today. To know all about the most polluted city in the world, it is crucial to analyze all the vital aspects of the place and the ecosystem that impacts it.

In this article, we are going to discuss the list of the most polluted cities in the world 2024, including Lahore(Pakistan) and Dhaka(Bangladesh), as per the World Air Quality Report, and the causes and the different ways to reduce air pollution in each city.

Most Polluted Cities in the World

Most Polluted Cities In The World 2024

Here, we have collated the list of the top 10 polluted cities in the world in 2024, as per updated data from the World Air Quality Report.

Rank	City	Country	AQI	Primary Pollutants
1	Lahore	Pakistan	437	PM2.5, dust
2	Dhaka	Bangladesh	385	PM2.5, PM10
3	Delhi	India	351	PM2.5, PM10
4	Dammam	Saudi Arabia	273	PM2.5, ozone
5	Muzaffarnagar	India	268	PM2.5, PM10
6	Baghdad	Iraq	224	PM2.5, dust
7	Patna	India	213	PM2.5, PM10
8	Ghaziabad	India	212	PM2.5, PM10
9	Hapur	India	211	PM2.5, PM10
10	Peshawar	Pakistan	205	PM2.5, dust

Most Polluted Cities In The World Ranked

These are some of the most air-polluted cities in the world, according to the latest reports:

1. Lahore – Most Polluted City In The World

Lahore, known to be the second largest city in Pakistan, is seen as the most polluted city in the world. Many activities are to be blamed for the population in that country, whether it is cutting down trees or fuel emissions from factories and other places. Lahore with a population of over 13 million people is suffering from a major problem today like respiratory problems and water pollution.

PM 2.5 report: 111.63ug/m3

Population: 13,979,000

Lahore- Third Most Polluted City In The World

2. Dhaka- Second Most Polluted City In The World

Dhaka is the capital city of Bangladesh and its PM 2.5 concentration level is more than 6.1 times as per the WHO guidelines which is highly above the limit. With a population of 17 million people, the people are stressed due to their country’s landfills, which scars people and causes various health problems.

PM 2.5 report- 84.73 ug/m3

Population: 22,478,000

Dhaka- Fifth Most Polluted City In The World

3. Delhi- Third Most Polluted City In The World

Delhi is the third most polluted city in the world. It is the capital of India, having a population of around 32,066,000 people who face health problems due to their pollution, which is even making the city’s soil quality poor day by day. As per the guidelines given by the WHO, the number is still 4.1 times higher than specified by them.

PM 2.5 report: 84.39ug/m3

Population: 32,066,000

Delhi- Second Most Polluted City In The World

4. Dammam- Fourth Polluted City in the World

Dammam is a small city in Saudi Arabia, which is considered to be the most polluted city in the world. As per the latest report, Dammam has a population of around 1,252,523. This city is known as the center of oil in Saudi, and this is the reason why it is causing so many health problems like heart or respiratory disease to people sitting in Dammam.

PM 2.5 report: 124.11ug/m3

Population: 1,252,523

Dammam- Most Polluted City in the World

5. Muzaffarnagar- Fifth Most Polluted City In The World

Fifth in the World, Second in India. Muzaffarnagar, situated in the fertile plains of Uttar Pradesh, India, holds the unenviable title of the fifth most polluted city in the world and the second most polluted city in India. This vibrant agricultural hub, teeming with around 4.5 million inhabitants, grapples with severe air quality issues, impacting the health and well-being of its residents.

PM 2.5 report: 81.35 µg/m³

Population: 556,000

Kolkata- Fourth Most Polluted City In The World

Most Polluted City in India

Delhi is the most polluted city in India and also the second most polluted city in the world. When we talk about the “Most Polluted Cities in India” or “Most Polluted City in the World,” it’s not just a list; it’s a wake-up call.

The 2023 pollution rankings reveal cities with the highest AQI (Air Quality Index), highlighting a critical issue in urban air quality. These cities, topping the charts in environmental pollution, offer a stark view of the challenges faced by residents and the environment. Factors like industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, and lack of green spaces contribute to the high AQI levels. Living in these areas means dealing with health risks like respiratory problems and heart diseases. Moreover, the impact on the environment is severe, with wildlife habitats being destroyed and ecosystems thrown off balance. Understanding and monitoring the urban air quality index is crucial, not just for the health of the city dwellers but also for the planet’s future. As we look at these cities, it’s important to remember that pollution is a global problem that needs urgent attention and action from all of us.

Check: World Air Quality Report

Most Polluted Cities in the World Today

Today’s most polluted cities span across continents, reflecting the global challenge of air pollution. Cities like Delhi in India, Lahore in Pakistan, and Krakow in Poland frequently top the list due to high levels of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10). Factors contributing to this pollution include vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and in some cases, geographical conditions that trap air pollutants. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach, including stricter environmental regulations, investment in clean energy, and public awareness campaigns. As we continue to monitor air quality worldwide, it’s clear that tackling pollution is essential for protecting public health and ensuring sustainable urban living.

Air Quality Index (AQI) of the Most Polluted Cities in the World

AQI stands for Air Quality Index. AQI is the standard measurement used to measure the quality of air in a specific region. It gives us an understanding of the level of air pollution in the most polluted cities of the world. The AQI is used to help the public, government agencies and policymakers make informed decisions regarding air quality and take appropriate actions to protect public health.

AQI Categories and Impact List for the Polluted Cities:

AQI Level	Impact
Good (0 – 50)	almost negligible impact
Satisfactory (51 – 100)	minor discomfort to sensitive individuals
Moderately Polluted (101 – 200)	breathing discomfort
Poor (201 – 300)	breathing discomfort to sensitive individuals
Very Poor (301 – 400)	respiratory illness and serious health impacts
Severe (401 – 500)	high risk to health, affecting even healthy individuals

For a detailed information, We recommend visiting these sources directly as they are likely to have the most up-to-date and comprehensive data available.

Source	How to Find Information	Website
World Health Organization (WHO)	Visit the WHO website and use the search bar to look for “air pollution,” “urban pollution,” or “most polluted cities.” Navigate to the “Publications” or “Data and statistics” sections for detailed reports and datasets on global air quality.	WHO
World Air Quality Index Project	Go to the World Air Quality Index Project website, explore the real-time AQI map or use the search function to find specific cities. Check their annual reports or blog posts for rankings of the most polluted cities.	World Air Quality Index Project
IQAir AirVisual World Air Quality Report	Visit the IQAir website to access the World Air Quality Report. Download the latest report, which typically includes a list of the most polluted cities based on PM2.5 levels.	IQAir
The Lancet Planetary Health	Access The Lancet Planetary Health journal and use the search feature to find articles on air pollution, including studies or reviews on urban pollution.	The Lancet Planetary Health
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or Equivalent National Bodies	For the United States, visit the EPA’s Air Data website. Internationally, look for the national environmental agency’s website of the country you’re interested in. Search for air quality data, reports on national air quality assessments, or pollution statistics.	EPA’s Air Data
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)	Visit the UNEP website and search for “air pollution,” “urban air quality,” or similar terms to find reports and articles.	UNEP

How Air Quality/ Pollution is Measured?

To measure air quality or air pollution, specialized instruments and air quality monitoring equipments are used. Countries and cities are listed as polluted by the levels of their PM 2.5 levels. More is the level, more it is difficult to survive in that country.

These are small pollutants under 2.5 micrograms, and they are among the most dangerous particles because they can enter deep into the lungs and bloodstream of any animal.

Causes of Air Pollution in the Most Polluted Cities

The main causes of air pollution are the discharge of industries, and the burning of coal, oil, or gas, because of which the air surrounding people is getting impure and taking away lives.

There are many causes of air pollution that can lead humans to lose their lives and suffer from various heart or lung diseases throughout their lives. Some of the most common causes are:

1. Burning of Fossil Fuel: Burning of fossil fuel can generate a lot of greenhouse gases, which cause the majority of air pollution.
2. Agricultural Activities: Ammonia is one of the most toxic elements used in agriculture, and if this is inhaled then it will cause health issues.
3. Mining Problems: Mining is considered as one of the top reasons for air pollution.

Causes	Description	Severity of Impact
Vehicle Emissions	Fossil fuel combustion in vehicles releases pollutants.	High: Direct impact on urban air quality.
Industrial Activities	Factories emit pollutants like sulfur dioxide and VOCs.	High: Significant contribution to local pollution.
Power Plant Emissions	Burning fossil fuels for electricity produces pollutants.	High: Contributes to regional air quality issues.
Construction & Demolition	Activities generate dust and particulate matter.	Moderate: Local impact, short-term.
Agricultural Practices	Farming releases pollutants like ammonia and pesticides.	Moderate: Impact on rural and suburban areas.
Waste Burning	Open burning of waste produces harmful pollutants.	High: Releases toxic substances into the air.
Deforestation	Tree removal reduces natural air filtration.	Moderate: Long-term impact on air quality.
Urbanization & Traffic	High-density traffic and urban growth increase emissions.	High: Urban areas experience chronic pollution.
Natural Sources	Wildfires and volcanic activity release pollutants.	Variable: Depends on frequency and scale.
Geographical Factors	Stagnant air in valleys contributes to pollutant buildup.	High: Aggravates local pollution levels.

How do you reduce air pollution in the most polluted city in the world?

Reducing pollution, especially in the most polluted cities in the world, needs a combined effort from the people and the government. Good policies can be implemented for the betterment of the city.

Some of the major methods to reduce pollution in the city include:

• Improving Public Transportation: Invest in efficient and affordable public transportation systems like buses, trams, and metros to encourage people to use public transit instead of private vehicles.
• Promoting Non-Motorized Transport: Encourage cycling and walking by building dedicated lanes and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. This can reduce the number of vehicles on the road and lower emissions.
• Implementing Vehicle Emission Standards: Enforce strict emission standards for vehicles, including regular inspections to ensure compliance. Promote electric and hybrid vehicles to reduce emissions.
• Controlling Industrial Emissions: Regulate industrial emissions by enforcing pollution control measures and encouraging cleaner technologies in factories.

Conclusion – Most Polluted Cities in the World List

Air pollution has reached its peak in recent years. The World Air Quality Report recently uncovered the pollution levels of cities around the world. This article provides a complete list of the most polluted cities in the world in 2023, including Dammam (Saudi Arabia) and Delhi (India), as per the World Air Quality Report and the causes of air pollution in each city. It also has valuable information on how Air Quality is measured and how to reduce air pollution levels in India and other countries.

The Most Polluted City in the World – FAQs

Which city is currently the most polluted in the world?

Lahore, Pakistan, is currently topping the list as the most polluted city in the world with an average PM2.5 concentration of 97.4μg/m³.

Which is the most polluted city in the world?

Dammam of Saudi Arabia is the most polluted city in the world, with an AQI of 514. New Delhi is the second most polluted city in the world, with an AQI of 483.

What is the full form of PM in pollution?

PM stands for “Particulate Matter” which refers to the mixture of solid and liquid substances found in the air.

Which are the 10 most polluted cities?

These are the 10 most polluted cities in 2023:

1. Dammam, Saudi Arabia (124.11 µg/m3)
2. Lahore, Pakistan (111.63 µg/m3)
3. Dhaka, Bangladesh (84.73 µg/m3)
4. Delhi, India (84.39 µg/m3)
5. Muzaffarnagar, India (81.35 µg/m3)
6. Baghdad, Iraq (77.62 µg/m3)
7. Ghaziabad, India (74.72 µg/m3)
8. Patna, India (67.20 µg/m3)

How is pollution measured in these rankings?

Pollution is primarily measured based on the annual average concentration of PM2.5 particles (particulate matter smaller than 2.5 micrometers) in the air.

What is the full form of AQI?

The full form of AQI is Air Quality Index. It is a standard of measurement of pollution.

Where is the best air quality in India?

Here is a list of the Cities with Best Air Quality in India (2023):

• Imphal (11.14 μg/m3)
• Madikeri (17.04 μg/m3)
• Mysuru (19.10 μg/m3)
• Mangalore (20.07 μg/m3)
• Amaravati (20.78 μg/m3)
• Haldia (23.43 μg/m3)Gorakhpur (24.83 μg/m3)
• Bagalkot (24.95 μg/m3)

What actions can be taken to reduce pollution in these cities?

Actions include implementing stricter emission standards, promoting clean energy sources, enhancing public transportation, and increasing green spaces within urban areas.