Byrnihat world's most polluted? Meghalaya CM blames Assam's AQI data

Meghalaya’s Byrnihat has been ranked as the world’s most polluted metropolitan area, according to the 2024 World Air Quality Report. 

However, Chief Minister Conrad Sangma has raised concerns over the accuracy of the data, pointing out that the alarming air quality index (AQI) figures were recorded by an Assam-based monitoring station.

"I have mentioned in my reply that all the records shown in different newspaper clippings were taken by the Assam monitoring station, which reported very poor AQI," Sangma clarified. "Whereas, when we looked at Meghalaya’s own stations and equipment in January 2025, our readings from three locations in the area showed satisfactory to moderate levels."

The CM reiterated his government’s commitment to ensuring better air quality for citizens but urged a more accurate representation of the data. "Yes, we want the best possible air quality, but the very poor index being referred to is from Assam’s station, not ours," he stated.

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Byrnihat, an industrial hub on the Assam-Meghalaya border, has seen rising pollution levels in recent years, attributed to rapid industrialization, vehicular emissions, and unregulated construction. The latest report, however, has sparked a debate over data credibility and the responsibility of pollution monitoring across state boundaries.

Following the controversy, the Meghalaya government is expected to review air quality monitoring mechanisms and work towards addressing pollution concerns in border areas. Environmentalists, meanwhile, have urged both Assam and Meghalaya to collaborate on tackling pollution and improving air quality standards.

As the debate continues, residents and industries in Byrnihat await clearer answers on the region’s environmental future.