All top 40 most polluted cities in the world as of October 30, 2025, were Indian, according to AQI readings recorded at 8:30 AM. Smaller northern cities such as Sri Ganganagar, Siwani, and Abohar topped the list with “severe” to “hazardous” air quality, surpassing Delhi, which ranked 13th. Experts attribute this alarming trend to stubble burning, dust, vehicle emissions, and stagnant weather conditions.

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•  All top 40 world’s most polluted cities on Oct 30 were from India.
•  Sri Ganganagar (Rajasthan) worst globally with AQI 830.
•  Haryana dominates list — Siwani (644), Hisar (477), Bhiwani (437).
•  Delhi at 13th spot with AQI over 400, still in “severe” range.
•  Pollution spread beyond metros to smaller northern towns.
•  Reasons include stubble burning, construction, vehicle, and road dust.
•  Cooler temperatures and weak air circulation trap pollutants near ground.
•  PM2.5 and PM10 particles main cause, not just gaseous emissions.
•  AQI above 400 poses serious respiratory health risk
• Experts urge stricter regional coordination and pollution-control measures.