Pakistan Tops Global Pollution List, India Ranks Sixth

The latest World Air Quality Report 2025 has identified Pakistan as the most polluted country globally, followed by Bangladesh and Tajikistan, while India ranks sixth. The report, released by Swiss air quality technology firm IQAir, highlights worsening global air quality and underscores the growing public health challenge posed by pollution.

Global Pollution Rankings and Trends

According to the report, the five most polluted countries are Pakistan, Bangladesh, Tajikistan, Chad and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. India occupies the sixth position, reflecting persistent air quality concerns despite policy interventions. In contrast, countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom rank much lower on the pollution scale, at 120th and 110th positions respectively, indicating relatively better air quality standards.

Data Coverage and Methodology

The report is based on extensive data collected from over 40,000 monitoring stations across 9,446 cities in 143 countries and territories. These include government-run stations, academic research networks, private sensors and citizen-led monitoring initiatives. The assessment primarily focuses on PM2.5 concentration levels, which are considered the most harmful pollutants due to their ability to penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream.

City-Level Insights and Indian Scenario

At the city level, Uttar Pradesh’s Loni has emerged as the most polluted city globally, followed by Hotan in China and Byrnihat in Meghalaya. Delhi ranks fourth, continuing to face severe air quality challenges. Notably, the world’s 25 most polluted cities are concentrated in India, Pakistan and China, with India hosting three of the top four. On the other hand, Nieuwoudtville in South Africa recorded the cleanest air with minimal PM2.5 levels.

Important Facts for Exams

• PM2.5 refers to particulate matter smaller than 2.5 micrometres, harmful to human health.
• WHO sets annual PM2.5 guideline limits for safe air quality.
• IQAir is a Switzerland-based air quality monitoring organisation.
• Only about 9% of countries meet WHO air quality standards.

Health Impact and Environmental Concerns

The report notes that 91 per cent of countries exceeded the World Health Organisation’s recommended PM2.5 limits, with only a small fraction meeting safe standards. Increasing wildfire activity and industrial emissions have worsened air quality globally. The impact is particularly severe on children, as prolonged exposure during developmental years can cause irreversible respiratory damage, making air pollution a long-term public health crisis.