Clean Air Milestone: Varanasi Ranks No.1 Among 131 Cities

Varanasi has achieved a major environmental milestone, securing the top position among 131 cities in the latest National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) rankings after recording a 45 percent reduction in PM2.5 levels between 2017 and 2024.

According to findings cited in reports by the World Emission Network and research published in Environmental Science and Technology Letters, the city registered the highest decline in fine particulate matter (PM2.5) levels in the country during this period. In 2017, Varanasi’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) typically remained in the “poor” category, hovering between 220 and 240. By 2024, it had improved significantly, stabilizing between 140 and 160, placing it in the “moderate” to “satisfactory” range. Even during winter months, when pollution levels usually spike, a noticeable improvement has been observed.

Civic authorities attribute this progress to sustained policy measures and public participation. Key initiatives include 100 percent door-to-door waste collection, scientific disposal of nearly 1,200 tonnes of waste daily, and deployment of over 40 mechanized road-sweeping machines to control dust. Construction sites are now monitored online, and anti-smog guns are being widely used.

The push for cleaner fuel has also played a crucial role. The city now has around 50 CNG stations, with 45 currently operational, supplying over one lakh kilograms of CNG daily. More than 25,000 registered e-rickshaws and around 3,500 other electric vehicles are operating on city roads, reducing dependence on diesel. Additionally, 116 industrial units have shifted to PNG, and several boats on the Ganga have transitioned from diesel to CNG.

Officials say the Varanasi model could serve as an example for other cities striving to improve air quality. While other Uttar Pradesh cities such as Meerut and Gajraula featured in the top ten, Varanasi’s 45 percent improvement stands out as the most significant in the count.