Surat has once again featured among the country’s top three ‘clean air’ cities, though it dropped two spots from last year’s No. 1 position.
According to results announced in Delhi on Tuesday by the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Surat scored 196 out of 200 points—two more than last year—yet shared the third rank with Agra. Indore retained the top spot.
Officials said Surat made strong strides in promoting e-vehicles and improving solid waste management, but its overall air quality saw a dip compared to 2023. Data shows PM10 levels in the city’s air fell by 12.71% in 2023–24.
In 2023, Surat was ranked 13th but leapt to No. 1 last year after a series of reforms. This year’s recognition marks its 10th national award in two years.
A total of 130 cities participated in the survey, with Surat being the only one from Gujarat to make it to the top list. Municipal Commissioner Shalini Agrawal and Mayor Dakshesh Mavani accepted the award from Union Minister Bhupender Yadav at a ceremony in New Delhi.