WHO data show that almost all of the global population (99%) breathe air that exceeds WHO guideline limits and contains high levels of pollutants.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) was 112 at 8 am on March 15, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)

India saw a seven per cent decline in PM2.5 levels in 2024, but six of the world's ten most polluted cities were still in the country, according to the IQAir 2024 World Air Quality Report. India's annual PM2.

India ranked as the fifth most polluted country in the world in 2024, with Byrnihat, Meghalaya, recognized as the most polluted metropolitan area globally. Despite a 7% decline in PM2.5 levels, New Delhi remained the most polluted capital.