A recent report from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has revealed that Greater Noida has been ranked as the most polluted city in India for 2025, followed closely by Ghaziabad. This alarming finding has raised concerns among environmentalists and the local populace about the deteriorating air quality in these regions.

Key Developments

The CPCB's annual report, released on November 29, 2025, highlights the alarming levels of particulate matter (PM2.5) in Greater Noida, which recorded an average of 150 µg/m³ this year, well above the safe limit of 40 µg/m³ set by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Ghaziabad, which ranks second, reported similar averages, with levels hovering around 140 µg/m³. The report indicates a worrying trend, as both cities have consistently ranked among the top five most polluted in India for the past several years.

"The situation is critical and requires immediate intervention from both government and citizens to improve air quality and public health," stated Dr. Aditi Sharma, an environmental scientist at the Indian Institute of Technology.

Supporting Evidence

The report compiles data from over 200 monitoring stations across the country, analyzing air quality in terms of particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide levels. Areas with heavy vehicular traffic, industrial emissions, and construction dust have been identified as primary contributors to pollution in Greater Noida and Ghaziabad.

According to the CPCB, the industrial sector in these regions has grown rapidly, but regulatory measures to control emissions have lagged. Local resident Rajesh Kumar expressed frustration: "Every morning, we wake up to a haze. It’s affecting our health and daily lives. The government needs to act now!"

What We Know

Wider Context

Air pollution in India has reached alarming levels, making it one of the most pressing public health issues in the country. A report by the Health Effects Institute indicated that air pollution leads to over 1 million premature deaths annually in India. The situation in Greater Noida and Ghaziabad reflects broader urban challenges in managing air quality amid rapid industrialization and urbanization.

As cities grapple with rising pollution levels, concerns are growing about the potential long-term impacts on public health, especially among vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly.

Immediate Outlook

In response to these findings, local authorities have pledged to review existing environmental regulations and enhance monitoring of pollution sources. Stakeholders, including environmental groups and health organizations, are calling for immediate action, including the implementation of stricter emissions standards and increased community awareness campaigns.

"It's time for a collective effort from all sectors to combat this crisis. We must prioritize the health of our citizens over economic growth," urged Dr. Ravi Mehta, a member of the Environmental Protection Agency.

Key Takeaways

• Greater Noida tops India's pollution rankings, with Ghaziabad closely following.
• Immediate action from authorities and citizens is crucial to combat air quality issues.
• Long-term implications of pollution on public health must be addressed urgently.