In 2024, India was ranked the third most polluted nation in the world. Of the 145 cities with the worst air quality globally, a staggering 125 are in India. Pollution is taking a serious toll on millions of people every day. Rapid urbanization and expanding industrial activity have only made it harder to control pollution levels. Real change will only happen if the government strengthens environmental laws, reduces emissions, and promotes cleaner, more sustainable solutions. But it’s not just up to authorities– people also have a role to play and can play a role by reducing pollution, supporting green initiatives, raising awareness, or raising awareness about the problem. For many, wearing masks and staying indoors during peak pollution months has become a necessity rather than just a precaution. For Delhi residents, this extreme pollution is not unusual. The city spent 43 days in 2024 with hazardous air quality, making it one of the hardest places to breathe. In cities like New Delhi, Greater Noida, and Ghaziabad, pollution was even worse– equal to smoking 1,400 cigarettes without ever lighting one. Despite efforts to reduce stubble burning and tighten regulations, the air quality has seen little improvement. In fact, the problem seems to be growing, with more cities ranking among the world’s most polluted.
