Delhi remained one of the most polluted cities in the NCR during 2025–26, with an annual average PM10 level of 201 micrograms per cubic metre, despite a 17% decline from the 2017–18 baseline, according to a recent study. An analysis by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air found that Ghaziabad recorded the highest PM10 level in the country at 215 micrograms per cubic metre, followed by Delhi at 201 and Noida at 195.

The report highlighted that pollution in Delhi is still over three times higher than the national standard of 60 micrograms per cubic metre, indicating ongoing air quality concerns. It also pointed out that pollution is a regional issue, with emissions from nearby NCR cities such as Ghaziabad, Noida, Gurugram, and Faridabad contributing significantly.

79 cities showed improvement in PM10 levels compared to the baseline year, with 27 achieving reductions of more than 40%. However, pollution worsened in 14 cities and remained unchanged in three, while 89 out of 96 cities still exceeded national air quality limits. Gurugram was the most polluted city in the country, followed by Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Noida, reflecting continued concerns in the NCR region.

Although 220 out of 251 cities recorded PM2.5 levels below India’s daily standard, only three met the stricter WHO guidelines, suggesting that achieving clean air remains a significant challenge. Experts emphasized the need for stronger, region-wide action under the National Clean Air Programme to address pollution sources affecting Delhi and surrounding areas.