Bathinda AQI Hits 816 As India Dominates Global Pollution Rankings

Air quality across several regions deteriorated sharply following Diwali, placing numerous locations among the most polluted globally. According to morning measurements taken at 8.30 am, Punjab recorded some of the highest concentrations of airborne pollutants. The city of Bathinda emerged at the top of the global air quality index list, registering a staggering Air Quality Index reading of 816.

Close behind was Faridkot, another location in Punjab, which registered a reading of 804. The severe atmospheric conditions extended beyond state borders into neighbouring areas. In Haryana, Rewari secured the third position on the global index with a recorded Air Quality Index value of 696. Meanwhile, Sri Ganganagar in Rajasthan placed fourth globally, logging a severe reading of 689.

Extreme air pollution levels placed Bathinda at the top of the global index with an AQI of 816.

These alarming figures highlight a widespread regional air quality crisis that affects millions of residents. The concentration of extreme pollution across multiple districts in northern India demonstrates the immense scale of post-festival environmental challenges.

Why it matters

This severe deterioration in air quality poses immediate health risks to populations across the affected regions in India, impacting daily life, outdoor activities, and public health systems. The extreme index values recorded in Bathinda, Faridkot, Rewari, and Sri Ganganagar illustrate the urgent and widespread nature of the post-Diwali pollution crisis.