Question 1

What is the AQI in Varanasi today?

Accepted Answer

As of 2026-09-16T20:37:42.000Z, the Air Quality Index in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh is 33 on India's CPCB National AQI scale — category "Good". The dominant pollutant is Ozone, and PM2.5 measures 17 µg/m³ against the WHO 24-hour guideline of 15 µg/m³. Readings refresh every 15 minutes from OpenWeatherMap station data.

Question 2

Is the air in Varanasi safe to breathe right now?

Accepted Answer

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh is currently in the "Good" band at AQI 33 on India's CPCB scale. On that scale 0–50 is Good and 51–100 Satisfactory, both safe for everyone; 101–200 Moderate means people with asthma, or heart and lung conditions, should limit prolonged outdoor exertion; above 300 everyone should stay indoors and run an air purifier where possible.

Question 3

What is the PM2.5 level in Varanasi?

Accepted Answer

PM2.5 in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh currently measures 17 µg/m³. The WHO 24-hour guideline is 15 µg/m³ and India's national ambient standard is 60 µg/m³, so this reading is within India's national standard but above the WHO guideline. PM2.5 is fine particulate matter under 2.5 micrometres, small enough to reach deep into the lungs and cross into the bloodstream.

Question 4

What is the main air pollutant in Varanasi?

Accepted Answer

Ozone is currently driving the AQI in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The published index is the highest sub-index across all six tracked pollutants — PM2.5, PM10, ozone, NO₂, SO₂ and CO. PM2.5, fine particulate matter under 2.5 micrometres, is usually the driver in Indian cities, but dust as PM10 and summer ozone take over often enough to be worth checking.

Question 5

Is it safe to exercise outdoors in Varanasi?

Accepted Answer

On India's CPCB scale, outdoor exercise is fine for everyone below AQI 50. From 51–100 it is satisfactory, though sensitive groups should watch for symptoms. Above AQI 200 everyone should move workouts indoors. Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh is at AQI 33 right now. Check the 4-day forecast on this page to find the cleanest window.

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