In a concerning revelation, India emerged as the third-most polluted country in 2023, following Bangladesh and Pakistan, as per the findings of the Swiss air quality monitoring organization, IQAir. The report highlighted a grim reality where out of the top 50 most-polluted cities worldwide, a staggering 42 were located in India, with Begusarai claiming the unfortunate top spot.

The concentration of the hazardous pollutant PM2.5 in India surpassed alarming levels, exceeding the World Health Organization’s recommended guideline of an annual average of 5 µg/m3 or less by more than 10 times. Similarly, in Bangladesh, which was identified as the most-polluted country in the report, the PM2.5 concentration was found to be 15 times higher than the WHO guideline, while in Pakistan, it was 14 times higher.

Among the top five polluted cities, besides Begusarai, were India’s Guwahati (Ranked No. 2), Delhi (3), and Mullanpur (4), along with Pakistan’s Lahore (5). Moreover, New Delhi, Siwan, Saharsa, Goshaingaon, and Katihar from India secured positions in the top 10 most polluted cities, underscoring the widespread environmental challenge faced by the nation.

The report serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for robust measures to address air pollution and safeguard public health across India. Efforts aimed at curbing pollution levels and promoting sustainable practices are imperative to mitigate the detrimental effects of air pollution on both the environment and human well-being.