In 2025, a welcome contrast is beginning to emerge in a nation where headlines are frequently dominated by smog-filled skylines and thick winter fog. Some cities in India, as per AQI, are subtly recovering the air that we all too frequently take for granted. With their bright skies and fresher air, these locations—from hill-station quiet to beach breezes—are not merely surviving; they are flourishing.
While a lot of the conversation about urban India focuses on the negative, it’s time to highlight the positive. In these cities, the sight of grey haze won’t make you cringe when you open your window in the morning. In a land of rapid expansion and severe traffic, they are the unexpected respites—evidence that change is achievable, one cityscape at a time.
India’s Top 10 Cleanest Cities By Air Quality Index (AQI)
| S. No | City | AQI (US) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pune | 51 |
| 2 | Mumbai | 60 |
| 3 | Nashik | 63 |
| 4 | Ahmedabad | 64 |
| 5 | Bhopal | 64 |
| 6 | Pimpri Chinchwad | 66 |
| 7 | Bhilai | 67 |
| 8 | Nagpur | 71 |
| 9 | Gandhinagar | 74 |
| 10 | Indore | 76 |
Pune
Pune, once renowned mainly for its lovely climate and active student population, is now wearing a new crown: it was named India’s cleanest big city in 2025. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Pune’s air quality is “satisfactory,” with an exceptional AQI of 51.
This implies that most residents can breathe without concern, while individuals with respiratory sensitivities may experience some discomfort. Pune is demonstrating that clean air and urban development can coexist, thanks to its greenery and rising environmental consciousness among its residents.
Mumbai
Mumbai, the vibrant financial center of India, unexpectedly takes second place with an AQI of 60, which falls well within the “Satisfactory” range. This is no minor accomplishment for a city that never sleeps, where millions of cars pass through congested streets daily.
A large portion of the credit goes to nature, as Mumbai’s coastal winds serve as the city’s unseen cleaners, clearing the air of impurities and revitalizing it. Mumbai proves that even amid skyscrapers and urban chaos, there can be moments of pure breathing tranquility.
Nashik
Nashik, well-known for its verdant vineyards and meditative atmosphere, gains another honor with an impressive AQI of 63, placing it in the “Satisfactory” category. Its consistent air circulation and relatively low industrial presence help in reducing pollution.
Whether wandering through vineyards or visiting the revered Kumbh Mela, Nashik offers the luxury of clean air and calm surroundings.
Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad, Gujarat’s thriving business and industrial hub, strikes a balance between expansion and a growing awareness of environmental responsibility. The city’s AQI of 64 places it comfortably in the “Satisfactory” zone, remarkable considering its size and rapid growth.
Favorable weather patterns and pollution control initiatives contribute to this success. Ahmedabad’s vibrant business districts and the Sabarmati Riverfront showcase that progress and cleaner air can go hand in hand.
Bhopal
Bhopal, known for its glistening lakes and lush greenery, remains one of India’s more tranquil capitals. With an AQI of 64, the city sits comfortably in the “Satisfactory” range.
Its natural ecosystem and abundant greenery are vital in maintaining air balance. Whether it’s a calm morning by Upper Lake or a stroll through Van Vihar, Bhopal continues to show how urban life and nature can exist in harmony.
India’s Top 10 Most Polluted Cities As Per Air Quality Index (AQI)
The latest Air Quality Index (AQI) data for Indian cities represents the average air quality, released by the CPCB. The following table highlights cities currently battling poor air conditions.
| Rank | City | State | AQI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Delhi | Delhi | 357 |
| 2 | Ghaziabad | Uttar Pradesh | 332 |
| 3 | Byrnihat | Meghalaya | 303 |
| 4 | Chandigarh | Chandigarh | 302 |
| 5 | Hapur | Uttar Pradesh | 287 |
| 6 | Dhanbad | Jharkhand | 277 |
| 7 | Baddi | Himachal Pradesh | 276 |
| 8 | Greater Noida | Uttar Pradesh | 270 |
| 9 | Kunjemura | Maharashtra | 269 |
| 10 | Noida | Uttar Pradesh | 259 |
India’s 2025 air quality snapshot offers a tale of two realities. While some cities like Pune, Mumbai, and Nashik breathe easy with cleaner skies, others like Delhi and Ghaziabad still struggle with hazardous air. Yet, the positive trend in many urban regions proves that with strong policy, public awareness, and sustainable urban planning, cleaner air is not just a dream—it’s achievable.
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