NEW DELHI: Delhi continues to rank among India’s most polluted cities. According to a report prepared by Respirer Living Sciences, the national capital recorded an annual average PM2.5 level of 107 micrograms per cubic metre (µg/m³) in 2024, making it the second most polluted city in India after Byrnihat, Assam (127.3 µg/m³).
The report titled “Towards Clear Skies 2025” further pointed out that while cities like Kolkata and Chennai achieved 21.5% and 9.2% reductions in PM2.5, respectively, between 2019 and 2024, Delhi saw only 1.3% dip. “Locations like Anand Vihar and Jahangirpuri consistently recorded hazardous PM2.5 levels above 120 µg/m³, making them pollution hotspots,” it added.
Delhi’s pollution levels are nearly three times higher than Mumbai (36.1 µg/m³) and Bengaluru (33 µg/m³).
The report, which was released to mark the sixth anniversary of the National Clean Air Programme, stated that India initially aimed for a 20-30% reduction in PM2.5 and PM10 levels by 2024, later revising the target to 40% by 2026. While Delhi has benefited from measures such as the Graded Response Action Plan and BS-VI vehicular norms, it continues to face issues.
“Despite improvements, high vehicle density contributes to nearly 40% of Delhi’s annual PM2.5 emissions. Poor regulation of emissions from neighbouring industrial clusters and construction activities exacerbate air pollution. Stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana during winter months adds a critical external factor to the city’s pollution burden,” the report stated.
Citing seasonal variations causing pollution spikes, the report further stated that during winters, the smog episodes remained severe, with PM2.5 levels exceeding 250 µg/m³ due to low wind speeds, temperature inversions and stubble burning.
The study recommended key interventions, including enhanced public transportation networks, more effective dust management protocols and coordinated efforts across states to address agricultural waste burning practices. It stressed that achieving the NCAP’s ambitious 40% reduction target by 2026 would require hyper-localised solutions alongside robust regional coordination.
The report highlighted the challenges of addressing emissions in a densely populated urban area.
“Delhi’s slow progress reflects the need for deeper structural changes and sustained efforts to curb emissions. Seasonal spikes, industrial emissions, transboundary pollution, and high vehicular density are critical factors that demand targeted action,” said Ronak Sutaria, founder of Respirer Living Sciences.
“The report underscores the need for a comprehensive approach, combining stricter enforcement, innovative technologies and regional collaboration,” added Sutaria.
