Delhi is ranked as the world’s most polluted major city ahead of Diwali, based on live air quality data from Swiss group IQAir. Multiple outlets report that New Delhi tops global rankings on Saturday morning, citing a US air quality index reading of 581 at around 10:35 a.m., alongside a comparison to Lahore’s 285.
Outlets also link the timing to Diwali preparations and the festival itself, noting that Diwali is typically associated with firecracker use that can worsen air quality. Several reports say Indian authorities respond to the forecast by reducing exposure opportunities: India orders schools in and around Delhi to switch to online classes and encourages people to work from home ahead of the festival.
Different coverage emphasizes different elements—some foreground the ranking and specific index values, while others lead with the policy steps and the relationship between Diwali and expected worsening air conditions. Across sources, the core facts—Delhi’s top placement in IQAir’s live ranking and government guidance for schools and work—are consistent.
