List of the Top 5 Pollution-Free Cities in India (2024)

Delhi is one of India’s most polluted cities, and amidst the smog-filled city, there are urban oases striving for cleaner air and greener spaces.

According to the World Air Quality Report, Delhi’s air quality index is 168, ranking second globally after Beijing.

First, three Indian cities—Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata—consistently rank among the most polluted in the world due to high levels of vehicle emissions and industrial pollution.

Often referred to as “pollution-free” cities, these cities are setting examples of sustainable living and environmental protection. Let’s explore some of these pollution-free cities and uncover the secrets behind their environmental success.

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3.Aizawl

Aizawl, the capital of the northeastern Indian state of Mizoram, has an air quality index of 25, making it one of the least polluted cities in India.

This level of air quality reflects effective environmental management and community engagement in sustainable development practices.

Compared with the World Health Organization’s recommended PM2.5 air quality of 5 micrograms/cubic meter, Aizawl’s air is still very clean, with the average PM2.5 concentration being only 9.9 micrograms/cubic meter.

The city’s elevation and lush surroundings facilitate natural ventilation and reduce pollution levels. Local initiatives focusing on waste management and public awareness have further enhanced Aizawl’s reputation as a clean city, providing a healthy living environment to its residents.

4. Ramanathapuram

Ramanathapuram, located in the state of Tamil Nadu, has an air quality index of 25, making it one of the least polluted cities in India. This “good” rating indicates that air quality remains good and is safe for residents.

Ramanathapuram’s air quality is significantly better than many urban centers, at around 10 micrograms/cubic meter, which is significantly better than the World Health Organization’s recommended PM2.5 limit of 5 micrograms/cubic meter.

Factors that contribute to its cleanliness include low industrial activity and abundant green spaces that help absorb pollutants.

Community participation in cleanliness drives and environmental awareness campaigns further enhances the city’s appeal as a pollution-free destination.

5. Jika Ballapur

Chikkaballapur is located in Karnataka state and has an AQI of 28, making it a city with good air quality. This level indicates minimal pollution and a healthy environment for residents.

The WHO has set the recommended limit for PM2.5 at 5 micrograms/cubic meter; therefore, the air quality in Chikkaballapur is commendable at about 11 micrograms/cubic meter compared to many other areas.

The city’s commitment to sustainable practices and reducing industrial emissions plays a vital role in maintaining this status.

Additionally, the greenery around Jikabalapur helps in cleaning the air by effectively filtering pollutants.

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6. Madikeri

Madikeri, located in Karnataka state, has an air quality index of 29, making it one of the cities with the cleanest air quality in India. The rating is in the “good” category, indicating the lowest levels of pollution experienced by residents.

Compared to the World Health Organization’s recommended PM2.5 AQI of 5 micrograms/cubic meter, Madikeri’s air quality remains good at around 12 micrograms/cubic meter, which is much higher than the WHO recommended limit, indicating that overall air quality Good quality.

The city’s lush landscape and low industrial activity are important factors in its cleanliness.

Local initiatives to promote environmental awareness and waste management also play a vital role in maintaining the pristine environment of Madikeri.

7. Madurai

Madurai, another city in Tamil Nadu state, has an air quality index of 29, making it one of the least polluted cities in India. This “good” classification indicates that air quality remains at healthy levels for the city’s residents.

WHO recommends PM2.5 air quality of 5 micrograms/cubic meter; therefore, Madurai’s air quality is commendable compared to many urban areas across the country.

Air quality for the city’s residents remains at healthy levels, with PM2.5 concentrations around 12 micrograms/cubic meter.

Factors such as reduced industrial emissions and community involvement in environmental initiatives help maintain this clean state. Additionally, the green spaces in Madurai help in filtering pollutants efficiently.

8. Chikkamagaluru

Chikkamagaluru is located in the state of Karnataka and has an AQI of 30, classifying it as a city with good air quality standards in India. The rating reflects minimum pollution levels with PM2.5 concentrations of approximately 13 micrograms per cubic meter.

Chikkamagaluru’s air remains relatively clean compared to the World Health Organization’s recommended PM2.5 limit of 5 micrograms per cubic meter.

The city’s natural environment and low industrial activity play an important role in maintaining this status.

The community’s efforts to promote environmental sustainability enhance the appeal of Chikkamagalur as a pollution-free destination and provide a healthy environment to the residents.

9. Gangtok

Gangtok, located in Sikkim, has an air quality index of 30. It is one of the least polluted cities in India and its air quality standards are commendable.

The rating falls in the “good” category, indicating residents experience the lowest pollution levels compared to many urban centers in India.

The World Health Organization recommends keeping the PM2.5 air quality index below 5 micrograms/cubic meter. However, this rating corresponds to a PM2.5 concentration of approximately 13 μg/m3. This is significantly better than many urban centers in India, but still higher than the limits recommended by the World Health Organization.

Factors contributing to this cleanliness include its elevated location and surrounding natural landscaping that help effectively filter pollutants.

10. Nagaon

Nagaon, located in Assam, has an AQI of 30, making it one of the cleanest cities in India in terms of air quality standards.

The rating means residents experience good air quality and minimal pollution levels.

Nagaon’s air remains relatively clean and safe for residents, with PM2.5 concentrations of about 13 micrograms/cubic meter, compared to the World Health Organization’s recommended PM2.5 limit of 5 micrograms/cubic meter.

Contributing factors include low industrial activity and ample green spaces, which help to effectively reduce pollution levels while promoting community participation in environmentally friendly initiatives, further enhancing Nagao’s appeal as a pollution-free city.

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