If you've ever stepped outside during Delhi's winter smog or Mumbai's post-Diwali haze and wondered, "Is this air safe to breathe?" — you're not alone. Thousands of Indians search for AQI data every single day. In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about checking air quality in your city and what those numbers actually mean for your health.
What Is the Air Quality Index (AQI)?
The Air Quality Index is a standardised measurement used to communicate how polluted the air is at a given time. India uses the National Air Quality Index (NAQI), launched by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in 2014. It measures eight key pollutants: PM2.5, PM10, NO₂, SO₂, CO, O₃, NH₃, and Pb.
The AQI scale in India ranges from 0 to 500, with six categories:
| AQI Range | Category | Health Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 0–50 | Good | Minimal health risk |
| 51–100 | Satisfactory | Minor discomfort for sensitive people |
| 101–200 | Moderate | Breathing discomfort for those with lung/heart conditions |
| 201–300 | Poor | Breathing discomfort for most people on prolonged exposure |
| 301–400 | Very Poor | Respiratory illness on prolonged exposure |
| 401–500 | Severe | Serious health effects for everyone |
How to Check AQI in Your City
There are several reliable ways to check AQI in India in real-time:
1. IndiaInfoHub AQI Tool
Our built-in AQI checker fetches real-time data from the Open-Meteo API, giving you PM2.5 and PM10 readings for any city in India. Just type your city name and get instant results — no app installation needed.
2. CPCB Official Website & SAMEER App
The CPCB runs the SAMEER app (available on Android and iOS), which provides real-time AQI data from over 300 monitoring stations across India. You can also check their website at app.cpcbccr.com for station-wise data.
3. IQAir & AirVisual
The IQAir platform aggregates data from government monitors, low-cost sensors, and satellite data to provide hyperlocal AQI readings. Great for cities where CPCB coverage is limited.
4. Google Search
Simply search "AQI [your city name]" on Google, and you'll get a quick card showing the current AQI reading, PM2.5 levels, and a health advisory.
Why PM2.5 Matters Most
While the AQI accounts for eight pollutants, PM2.5 (fine particulate matter) is by far the most dangerous in Indian cities. These microscopic particles — smaller than 2.5 micrometres — can penetrate deep into your lungs and even enter your bloodstream.
According to a 2023 study by the Lancet, air pollution contributes to over 1.67 million premature deaths in India annually, with PM2.5 being the primary culprit. Cities like Delhi, Ghaziabad, and Lucknow regularly record PM2.5 levels 10–15 times higher than WHO recommended limits.
How to Protect Yourself
Here are practical, evidence-based steps to reduce your exposure:
- Wear an N95 mask when AQI exceeds 200. Cloth or surgical masks offer little protection against PM2.5.
- Use an air purifier indoors — HEPA-filter models remove over 99% of fine particulate matter.
- Keep windows closed during peak pollution hours and use indoor plants (Areca Palm, Snake Plant) as natural air filters.
- Avoid outdoor exercise when AQI is above 150. Shift your morning jog to the gym on bad air days.
- Stay hydrated — drinking warm water with turmeric or ginger can help soothe irritated airways.
- Monitor your health — if you experience persistent coughing, shortness of breath, or eye irritation, consult a doctor.
Most Polluted Cities in India (2025)
Based on the latest CPCB annual report, here are the most polluted cities in India by average annual PM2.5:
| Rank | City | State | Avg PM2.5 (µg/m³) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Delhi | Delhi NCR | 108 |
| 2 | Ghaziabad | Uttar Pradesh | 105 |
| 3 | Lucknow | Uttar Pradesh | 97 |
| 4 | Patna | Bihar | 94 |
| 5 | Muzaffarpur | Bihar | 91 |
Bottom Line
Air quality monitoring should become part of your daily routine, just like checking the weather. With easily accessible tools — including our free AQI checker — there's no excuse not to stay informed. Your lungs will thank you.