Ghaziabad most-polluted city in India during 2025-26 winters, followed by Noida and Delhi: Report
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Pollution (air, water, plastic)· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
The Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) released a report revealing that Ghaziabad was the most polluted city in India during the winter of 2025-26.
Background
The CREA analysis covered air quality data from October 2025 to February 2026. It found that 204 out of 238 Indian cities exceeded the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for PM2.5.
Facts for Prelims
- FactGhaziabad, Noida, and Delhi were the top three most polluted cities in India during winter 2025-26.
- PlaceGreater Noida, Bahadurgarh, and Dharuhera were also ranked among the most polluted cities.
- BodyCentre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) is the body that analyzed the air quality data.
- Fact204 out of 238 Indian cities exceeded the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for PM2.5.
For Mains
Q. Critically analyze the factors contributing to persistent non-compliance with National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) in the National Capital Region (NCR).
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Regulatory gap: Ineffective enforcement of gaseous pollutant controls across state boundaries
- Urban-Industrial nexus: Concentrated particulate matter from industrial clusters in Ghaziabad and Bahadurgarh
- Data-policy mismatch: Need for real-time monitoring to trigger emergency measures during winter months
Keywords: National Ambient Air Quality Standards · PM2.5 · Particulate Matter · Non-compliance · Gaseous Pollutants
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