Dharuhera Tops India's Most Polluted Cities List in October; NCR Dominates Top 10

Dharuhera in Haryana has been identified as India's most polluted city for October 2025, according to a report by The Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA). The city recorded a monthly average PM2.5 concentration of 123 microgram per cubic metre (μg/m³), exceeding the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) on 77% of days. Alarmingly, all 10 of the most polluted cities in India during October were located within the National Capital Region (NCR) and the Indo-Gangetic Plain. Delhi itself ranked sixth with an average concentration of 107 μg/m³, a significant increase from its September average. CREA analysts emphasize that this surge highlights the impact of year-round emission sources, suggesting that short-term, seasonal measures like the Graded Response Action Plan are insufficient. They call for long-term mitigation plans focusing on sector-specific emission cuts with clear accountability. In contrast, Shillong, Meghalaya's capital, emerged as India's cleanest city. The report also noted that while 212 out of 249 monitored cities met India's NAAQS, only six met the World Health Organization’s (WHO) daily safe guideline. The shift in air quality categories indicates a widespread deterioration, especially in the NCR.

Impact This news can significantly affect Indian businesses and the overall economy. High pollution levels lead to increased healthcare expenditure, reduced worker productivity due to illness, and potential disruptions in daily life and commerce. It may also necessitate stricter environmental regulations, impacting industries like manufacturing, transportation, and energy. Investors may consider the environmental performance and regulatory risks associated with companies operating in affected regions. Impact Rating: 7/10

Difficult Terms: PM2.5: Fine particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less, small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs and cause health problems. National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS): Government-mandated limits for outdoor air pollutants that protect public health and welfare. WHO: World Health Organization, a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. CREA: Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air, an independent research organisation focusing on energy and air quality issues. Indo-Gangetic Plain: A large, fertile alluvial plain in northern India, often susceptible to severe air pollution. Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP): A set of anti-pollution measures implemented in the NCR region, activated based on the severity of air quality.