The model is based on data derived from satellite measurements, air transport models and ground station monitors for more than 3000 locations, both rural and urban.

It was developed by WHO in collaboration with the University of Bath in UK.

The report called for dramatic action against pollution that is blamed for more than six million deaths a year.

The problem is most acute in cities, but air in rural areas is worse than many think and poorer countries have much dirtier air than the developed world, it said.

The report estimates population exposure to PM 2.5 at country level through a new model that relies on satellite data and ground measurements.

According to the latest urban air quality database, 98 per cent of cities in low and middle income countries with more than 1,00,000 inhabitants do not meet WHO air quality guidelines.

The country-level data in the new report should serve as an opportunity for policymakers to focus on urgent multi-sectoral actions to promote health, WHO SEAR said.

Countries in the region (SEAR) are already working on addressing household air pollution to reduce the burden of noncommunicable diseases.

The introduction of clean and sustainable energy policies and lean and efficient cooking technologies are a key part of the actions needed to clean-up household air pollution caused by the burning of solid fuel such as wood for cooking purposes, it said.

"Governments across the region should find innovative ways to manage fast-paced growth and development with health concerns related to outdoor air pollution," said Singh.

She highlighted that the new WHO report on air pollution exposure and health impacts is an opportunity for countries to review and enhance efforts to improve air quality.

WHO SEAR said that further efforts and investments should be made to encourage as many cities and countries in the Region to closely monitor air quality, using standard, good quality and comparable methods and instruments, as well as making this information available.

The data should be used to strengthen measures against inefficient modes of transport, household fuel and waste burning, coal-fired power plants and industrial activities ?some of the major sources of air pollution. PTI TDS AJR RT AJR