Air pollution is a serious issue in many urban areas, affecting not only the health of residents but also the experience of tourists. If you’re planning your next trip, you might want to be aware of these cities known for their high pollution levels. These are the 17 cities known for the worst air quality.
Delhi, India
“Home to 31 million people,” reveals The Times, Delhi is a vibrant city with a rich history and a plethora of attractions, from the majestic Red Fort to the bustling markets of Chandni Chowk. However, it is also notorious for its severe air pollution. Smog, primarily from vehicle emissions and industrial activities, blankets the city, especially in the winter months, and tourists often find themselves wearing masks to cope.
Beijing, China
The capital of China, Beijing, is a city that blends ancient traditions with modern advancements, and iconic landmarks like the Great Wall and the Forbidden City attract millions of visitors annually. Despite its cultural allure, Beijing struggles with high levels of air pollution, often visible as a thick haze.
Cairo, Egypt
Known for its historic sites like the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, Cairo is another city where pollution poses a significant problem. The city’s air quality is compromised by a combination of vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and open burning of waste. Tourists often find the air in Cairo to be thick with smog, which can detract from the experience.
Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City, with its rich cultural heritage and vibrant arts scene, is a popular destination for travellers; however, the city’s air pollution is a major concern. Situated in a valley, the city’s topography traps pollutants from vehicles, factories, and even volcanoes. Smog often hangs over the city, particularly in the dry season.
Mumbai, India
India’s financial hub and home to Bollywood, Mumbai draws tourists with its energetic atmosphere and diverse attractions. Unfortunately, it also faces significant air pollution problems. The city’s air quality is affected by traffic congestion, industrial emissions, and construction dust. Tourists often report experiencing coughing and eye irritation, which can put a damper on sightseeing adventures.
Tehran, Iran
Boasting a rich cultural history and beautiful landscape, the capital of Iran sadly also struggles with severe air pollution, primarily from vehicle emissions and industrial activities. The city’s geography, surrounded by mountains, exacerbates the problem by trapping pollutants.
Dhaka, Bangladesh
Dhaka is a bustling metropolis with a unique cultural flavour, but its air quality is a significant drawback, as industrial pollution, vehicular emissions, and the widespread use of diesel generators contribute to the city’s poor air quality. Many tourists often experience breathing difficulties and eye irritation because of it.
Los Angeles, USA
We all know Los Angeles for its entertainment industry, beautiful beaches, and sunny weather. However, it also has a long-standing issue with air pollution. Visitors often notice the hazy skies and may experience respiratory discomfort, particularly during the warmer months when pollution levels tend to spike.
Jakarta, Indonesia
Indonesia’s capital is famous for its vibrant culture and bustling markets, but Jakarta is also plagued by air pollution. The main sources are vehicle emissions, industrial pollution, and open burning of waste, and tourists might find the smog overwhelming. This can significantly affect the enjoyment of exploring this otherwise fascinating city.
São Paulo, Brazil
Attracting tourists with its museums, restaurants, and nightlife, São Paulo is a major cultural and economic hub in Brazil, but unfortunately, it also suffers from high levels of air pollution. The burning of biomass contributes to the city’s poor air quality, making non-locals feel uneasy.
Karachi, Pakistan
Pakistan’s largest city, Karachi, is a melting pot of cultures and a significant port city, but it also faces severe air pollution challenges. The city’s air quality is compromised by vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and the burning of waste, and tourists frequently report respiratory issues and eye irritation.
Bangkok, Thailand
It’s a tourist hot spot 365 days a year, so it’s no surprise that Bangkok, famous for its vibrant street life and cultural landmarks, also contends with air pollution. Visitors often find the smog affects their ability to enjoy outdoor activities, with many experiencing breathing difficulties and discomfort during their time in this otherwise exciting city.
Manila, Philippines
The capital of the Philippines is a city of contrasts, with Manila’s historic sites and modern skyscrapers, yet it faces significant air pollution problems thanks to vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and open burning of waste. The smog is oppressive, leading to respiratory problems for many.
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Ulaanbaatar in Mongolia has a proximity to stunning natural landscapes, but that doesn’t make it any less polluted. The primary source of pollution is the burning of coal for heating, especially in winter. Tourists visiting during the colder months often find the air quality severely impacts their health.
Lima, Peru
Peru’s capital of Lima offers a rich history, delicious cuisine, and a vibrant cultural scene, but its air pollution is made worse by vehicle emissions and industrial activities. Non-locals often notice the smog, which can cause respiratory issues and discomfort, and make many regret travelling there.
Moscow, Russia
With its iconic landmarks such as the Kremlin and Red Square, Moscow is a city steeped in history that is popular with tourists; however, it also faces air pollution challenges and poor air quality. Many travellers report respiratory discomfort and a general feeling of unease.
Lahore, Pakistan
Our final city with the worst air pollution is Lahore in Pakistan, which has a number of historical sites to visit, yet will unfortunately be offering low air quality at the same time. You may find you struggle to enjoy outdoor activities when taking a trip to this particular city, thanks to the inevitable breathing difficulties.
