Delhi NCR

Delhi air pollution cutting life expectancy by over 8 years: Report

Published by
PTI

Delhi residents are projected to lose 8.2 years in life expectancy if current levels of particulate pollution in air persist, according to a report.

The Air Quality Life Index (AQLI) report released by the University of Chicago noted that Delhi remains the most polluted city in the world, with average fine particulate matter (PM2.5) levels exceeding the WHO guideline by more than 20 times.

In 2023, the city recorded PM2.5 concentrations of 111.4 micrograms per cubic metre, over 22 times the WHO limit of 5 micrograms per cubic metre.

The report underlined that Delhi residents face the steepest reduction in life expectancy due to toxic air, higher than in any other city globally.

The Indo-Gangetic Plain, which includes Delhi, continues to be the most polluted region, accounting for some of the highest health burdens linked to air pollution.

Also Read: Lapses at India’s busiest airport cause concern

Experts said curbing vehicular emissions, controlling industrial pollution, and addressing stubble burning in neighbouring states, is critical to reversing the health impacts of dirty air in the capital.

The AQLI 2025 report has been prepared by the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago (EPIC).

Based on satellite-derived PM2.5 data, it assesses global and regional pollution levels and their impact on human health.

PTI

Published by
PTI
Tags: delhi

Recent Posts

Delhi: Absconder in 2021 rape case arrested after five-year chase

Police said despite sustained efforts, the accused remained at large and kept changing locations and…

January 11, 2026

A desert in motion: architect Mansi Trehan’s paintings at Bikaner House

At a debut solo exhibition in Delhi, an architect-artist explores sand, memory and movement through…

January 11, 2026

Not informing police biggest mistake: Elderly Delhi couple after losing Rs 14.85 Cr to cyber fraudsters

Om Taneja (81) and his wife Indira (77), a doctor, were kept under “digital arrest”…

January 11, 2026

Delhi court releases man convicted in fatal accident case on probation

The court observed although appellant had caused death by rash and negligent act, sending him…

January 11, 2026

Delhi Police detains AAP leaders protesting against BJP over Guru Tegh Bahadur issue

AAP leaders were detained during a protest against the BJP over an alleged doctored video…

January 11, 2026

NDMC to step up infrastructure, cleanliness efforts ahead of India AI Impact Summit in Delhi

NDMC is rolling out a G20-style upgrade of roads, lighting and cleanliness to prepare Delhi…

January 11, 2026