Determining which country, India or Pakistan, is "cleaner" is complex and depends on the metrics used. Multiple sources indicate both countries consistently rank among the world's most polluted nations. While subjective observations vary, objective air quality data paints a similar picture.
Air Quality: A Key Indicator
Several reputable sources place both India and Pakistan among the top three most polluted countries globally in 2023. For example, IQAir data shows both countries with high PM2.5 levels, a key indicator of air pollution. World's Most Polluted Countries in 2023 - PM2.5 Ranking | IQAir This indicates a significant pollution problem in both nations, making it difficult to declare one definitively "cleaner" than the other based on air quality alone. Reports from AQLI and other sources further support this conclusion. Pakistan among world's top three smoggiest countries of 2023 - AQLI
Subjective Perceptions vs. Objective Data
Anecdotal evidence from sources like Reddit and Quora reveals differing opinions on the cleanliness of both countries. Some users claim Pakistan is cleaner, attributing this to lower population density or cultural factors. Is Pakistan cleaner than India? - Quora What does Pakistan do better than India ? : r/india However, these opinions lack the quantitative data needed for a definitive comparison.
Conclusion: A Tie Based on Available Data
Based on available objective data, specifically concerning air quality, neither India nor Pakistan can be definitively declared "cleaner." Both countries face significant environmental challenges relating to pollution. Further research with broader metrics beyond air quality would be needed for a more comprehensive assessment.
