Global Air Pollution Crisis: Key Findings
The World Air Quality Report 2024, published by Swiss air technology firm IQAir, presents a concerning picture of rising air pollution levels worldwide. The report is based on data from over 40,000 air monitoring stations across 138 countries and reveals that only 17% of global cities meet the World Health Organization’s (WHO) air pollution guidelines.
The report identifies the most polluted countries in the world, with Chad, Bangladesh, Pakistan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and India ranking at the top. Additionally, a small town in India has been declared the most polluted city globally.
Byrnihat: The World’s Most Polluted City
Byrnihat, an industrial town on the border of Assam and Meghalaya, has topped the list as the world’s most polluted city in 2024. According to IQAir, the town recorded a PM2.5 level of 128 micrograms per cubic meter, surpassing even Delhi, which remains the most polluted capital city in the world.
Why Is Byrnihat Facing Severe Pollution?
The rapid industrial growth in Byrnihat is the main reason for its extreme air pollution. The town is home to several factories, including:
✔ Distilleries
✔ Iron and steel plants
✔ Cement factories
These industries release toxic pollutants, significantly reducing air quality. Additionally, the heavy movement of trucks transporting goods between Assam and Meghalaya further contributes to pollution levels.
Health Impact: Rising Health Issues Among Residents
The deteriorating air quality in Byrnihat has had a serious impact on the health of its residents. Many locals report suffering from:
✔ Respiratory diseases
✔ Heart conditions
✔ Increased risk of cancer
In January, residents held protests against the rising pollution levels, urging authorities to take immediate action. As a result, the state government shut down seven industrial units in Byrnihat for violating environmental regulations.
Government Response and Pollution Control Measures
The state government has instructed the Pollution Control Board to conduct regular inspections and take strict action against industries that fail to meet environmental standards. Despite these steps, Byrnihat continues to struggle with its pollution crisis, highlighting the urgent need for stronger pollution control policies.
India’s Most Polluted Cities: The Bigger Picture
Byrnihat’s severe pollution problem is not an isolated case. The World Air Quality Report 2024 revealed that 13 Indian cities rank among the world’s 20 most polluted cities. These include:
✔ Delhi
✔ Mullanpur (Punjab)
✔ Faridabad
✔ Loni
✔ Gurugram
✔ Ganganagar
✔ Greater Noida
✔ Bhiwadi
✔ Muzaffarnagar
✔ Hanumangarh
✔ Noida
India’s Air Quality: Some Improvement, But Still a Long Way to Go
India’s average PM2.5 concentration dropped slightly from 54.4 micrograms per cubic meter in 2023 to 50.6 in 2024. However, 35% of Indian cities still report pollution levels exceeding WHO safety limits by over ten times.
Conclusion: The Need for Stronger Action
Byrnihat’s status as the world’s most polluted city is a wake-up call for India. While government actions have begun, stronger environmental regulations, stricter pollution control measures, and sustainable industrial practices are essential to tackle India’s air pollution crisis effectively.
