Kiera Jefferson
Mumbai and Bangalore are two of India's largest cities, and both have faced issues with air pollution. While the current AQI levels in both cities are acceptable, certain pollutants may be harmful to sensitive individuals. A study published in the Lancet found that short-term exposure to PM 2.5 pollution increased daily deaths by 7.2% across ten Indian cities, including Mumbai and Bangalore. This study highlights the health risks associated with even small increases in air pollution, and the need for immediate policy action to address pollution sources such as diesel generators, waste burning, and transport. With Mumbai's air pollution exceeding that of Delhi on certain days, and Bangalore also facing pollution challenges, a comparison of the two cities' pollution levels is a relevant topic for further exploration.
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What You'll Learn
Mumbai's air pollution has been higher than Delhi's on some days
India has many of the world's most polluted cities, with air pollution causing a health crisis. A study published in the Lancet in July 2024 found that 7.2% of all deaths each year across 10 cities could be linked to short-term PM 2.5 exposure higher than the World Health Organization (WHO) guideline of 15 micrograms/cubic metre (µg/m³). The average annual PM 2.5 level in Delhi was 113 micrograms, more than 22 times the WHO's safe standard, and the city had the highest number of deaths at just over a third.
Mumbai, India's financial capital, had the second-highest number of deaths at almost 5,100, which was 5.9% of all fatalities in the city. The study found that every increase of 10 micrograms of PM 2.5 was associated with a 2.41% increase in daily deaths. Notably, Mumbai's air pollution has been higher than Delhi's on some days. The current real-time Air Quality Index (AQI) level in Mumbai is 78 (Moderate), with the main pollutant being PM2.5, which is 2.8 times the WHO annual PM2.5 guideline value.
The high levels of air pollution in Mumbai are a cause for concern, with certain pollutants potentially affecting sensitive individuals. While the AQI levels are currently acceptable, the impact of short-term air pollution on health cannot be ignored. Mumbai's coastal location may contribute to the variability in air pollution levels compared to other Indian cities.
To address the health crisis caused by toxic air, individual responses can include wearing masks, limiting time spent outdoors during high-pollution periods, and reducing indoor pollution sources. However, the onus also lies on governments and policymakers to implement effective solutions. For example, Prana Air provides air quality monitoring and fresh air solutions for various indoor environments, including residential and commercial spaces, to help improve air quality and protect citizens' health.
Overall, while Delhi is typically considered one of India's most polluted cities, Mumbai's air pollution levels have surpassed Delhi's on certain days, highlighting the dynamic nature of air pollution and the need for continuous monitoring and effective mitigation strategies in both cities.
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Bangalore's AQI is 70
Bangalore's Air Quality Index (AQI) is currently 70, which is considered moderate. This means that while the air quality is generally acceptable, some pollutants may be a concern for sensitive individuals. The AQI takes into account various factors, including particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), ozone (O3), carbon monoxide (CO), and others.
Bangalore's AQI of 70 indicates that the air quality is better than that of other Indian cities like Mumbai, which currently has an AQI of 78, and New Delhi, which has an AQI of 81. These higher AQI values suggest that the air quality in these cities is less favourable than in Bangalore.
It is worth noting that Bangalore's AQI has been fluctuating; it was reported to be 69 at 5:10 PM on September 12, 2025, and 87 at 9:10 PM on the same day. These variations in AQI levels can be influenced by various factors, including weather conditions, industrial emissions, vehicle traffic, and the use of firecrackers during festivals.
To maintain good health, it is recommended to stay informed about the real-time AQI levels and take appropriate precautions. When AQI levels are moderate, it is generally safe for most individuals to go about their regular outdoor activities. However, sensitive individuals, such as those with respiratory conditions, may need to take extra care or limit their exposure during periods of elevated pollution levels.
Additionally, it is always advisable to take proactive measures to reduce air pollution and improve overall air quality. This can include reducing vehicle usage, encouraging the use of public transportation or carpooling, implementing stricter emission standards for industries, and promoting the use of clean energy sources. By working together towards reducing pollution, we can strive for healthier and more sustainable cities, ensuring the well-being of all residents.
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Mumbai's AQI is 78
Mumbai's Air Quality Index (AQI) is 78. An AQI of 78 is considered 'satisfactory' and indicates that the air quality is relatively good. This means that the air is generally safe to breathe and that the levels of common air pollutants are within acceptable limits. However, it's important to note that this AQI value may vary across different areas of Mumbai and at different times, as air quality can be influenced by various factors such as traffic, industrial emissions, and weather conditions.
AQI is a measure used to communicate the level of pollution in the air and its potential impact on human health. It takes into account various pollutants, including particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), carbon monoxide (CO), sulphur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and ground-level ozone (O3). Each pollutant has its own health effects, and the AQI provides a comprehensive way to convey the overall risk posed by these pollutants.
When the AQI is in the 'satisfactory' range, as it is in Mumbai with an AQI of 78, it means that air pollution levels are relatively low. People can generally engage in outdoor activities without significant health concerns. However, it is still important to stay informed and check the AQI regularly, as air quality can change rapidly due to various factors.
Maintaining good air quality is crucial for the well-being of residents in any city. While an AQI of 78 indicates that Mumbai's air quality is currently satisfactory, it is essential to continue implementing measures to reduce pollution and ensure that the air remains safe to breathe. This includes regulating industrial emissions, promoting the use of clean energy sources, improving public transportation systems, and encouraging sustainable practices among residents.
Additionally, individuals can also play a role in maintaining good air quality. Simple actions such as reducing personal vehicle usage, opting for carpooling or public transportation, conserving energy at home, and raising awareness about the importance of clean air can collectively make a significant impact. By working together, communities can help keep their city's air quality within safe limits and protect the health and well-being of all residents.
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Mumbai's PM2.5 concentration is 2.8 times the WHO guideline
Mumbai and Bangalore are two of the major cities in India. A report from 2025 lists Bangalore as having an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 67, categorised as "acceptable", while Mumbai has an AQI of 78, also "acceptable". However, it is important to note that some pollutants may be a concern for sensitive individuals in both cities.
Mumbai's PM2.5 concentration is 2.8 times the World Health Organization (WHO) annual PM2.5 guideline value. This is a significant excess, as the WHO guideline for PM2.5 is 15 micrograms/cubic metre (µg/m³). High levels of PM2.5 pollution have been linked to an increased risk of mortality, with short-term exposure causing approximately 33,000 deaths across 10 Indian cities annually, according to a study published in the Lancet in 2023.
Mumbai, despite being considered a relatively "clean" city, has experienced the second-highest number of air pollution-related deaths in India, with almost 5,100 deaths attributed to air pollution. The study found that every 10 micrograms of PM2.5 increase was associated with a 2.41% rise in daily deaths in the city.
The high levels of PM2.5 pollution in Mumbai are concerning, and the city could benefit from implementing measures to improve air quality and reduce the health risks associated with pollution exposure. Individual actions, such as wearing masks and limiting time outdoors during high-pollution periods, can help, but the onus is also on governments and policymakers to address this issue and enforce measures to reduce pollution levels.
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Bangalore is not listed as one of India's most polluted cities
While Bangalore does suffer from air pollution, it is not listed as one of India's most polluted cities. The city's overall Air Quality Index (AQI) is 132, which is considered "moderate". However, certain pollutants may be a concern for sensitive individuals.
AQI is a measure of the number and amount of pollutants in the air, and the levels deemed acceptable vary from country to country. In India, an AQI level of 0-50 is considered "good", 51-100 is "satisfactory", 101-200 is "moderate", 201-300 is "poor", 301-400 is "very poor", and anything above 401 is considered "severe". Bangalore's AQI of 132 falls into the "moderate" category, indicating that the air quality is generally acceptable, but some sensitive groups may experience symptoms with long-term exposure.
The AQI takes into account various pollutants, including PM2.5 (fine particulate matter), PM10 (respirable particulate matter), NO2 (nitrogen dioxide), SO2 (sulfur dioxide), CO (carbon monoxide), and O3 (ozone). Bangalore's individual AQI values for these pollutants vary, with the highest being 132 for PM2.5 and the lowest being 4 for SO2.
It is worth noting that air quality data can be subject to equipment limitations and fluctuations, and the data may be amended due to quality assurance. Therefore, while Bangalore may not be listed as one of India's most polluted cities, it is important for residents to stay updated with real-time air quality information and take necessary precautions, especially if they fall into a sensitive group.
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Frequently asked questions
Mumbai is more polluted than Bangalore. On 10 September 2025, Mumbai's Air Quality Index (AQI) level was 98, while Bangalore's was 67.
The main pollutant in Mumbai is PM2.5, which is currently 2.8 times the World Health Organization's annual guideline value.
As of 10 September 2025, the AQI level in Mumbai was 98, which is considered moderate.
As of 13 September 2025, the AQI level in Bangalore was 67, which is also considered moderate.
Prolonged exposure to air pollution can contribute to respiratory issues and other health conditions. Mumbai's air pollution has been linked to an increase in daily deaths, with a 2.41% increase associated with every 10 micrograms of PM 2.5 increase.
