How Many Years of Life You Could Lose by Living in Delhi’s Toxic Air | Delhi News

Delhi’s Toxic Air Could Cut Life Expectancy by 8.2 Years: University of Chicago Report (Representative Image)

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New Delhi: If Delhi’s air pollution persists, its residents could lose an average of 8.2 years in life expectancy, according to a new report by the University of Chicago. The Air Quality Life Index (AQLI) 2025, released by the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago (EPIC), ranks Delhi as the most polluted city in the world, with fine particulate matter (PM2.5) levels exceeding the WHO’s recommended limit by more than 20 times, reported PTI.

In 2023, Delhi recorded PM2.5 concentrations of 111.4 micrograms per cubic metre—over 22 times higher than the WHO guideline of 5 micrograms per cubic metre.

The report highlights that Delhi residents face the sharpest life expectancy loss globally due to toxic air, with the Indo-Gangetic Plain, including Delhi, remaining the most polluted region in the world and bearing one of the heaviest health burdens.

Experts stressed that reducing vehicular emissions, controlling industrial pollution, and addressing stubble burning in neighbouring states are critical to improving air quality and protecting public health. The AQLI uses satellite-based PM2.5 data to assess the impact of long-term air pollution exposure on human life expectancy across regions.

Electric Buses to Reduce Air Pollution

Twenty-five new electric buses were launched at Sardar Patel Vidyalaya on Thursday in a significant step towards environmental conservation, aimed at providing pollution-free travel for students. The CM emphasized that true progress involves harmony with nature, urging schools to transition to electric buses.

Using electric buses is not just about new technology but an important step to protect the environment. By giving electric buses to schools, the government wants to make sure children travel in clean, pollution-free vehicles to keep them healthy, the Delhi government claimed.

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