Air pollution is a pressing concern in Indian cities, particularly due to increasing vehicular load, industrial expansion, and urban activities. This study assessed the ambient air quality of Prayagraj city during the post-monsoon season of 2024 across residential, commercial, and industrial zones. The monitoring focused on PM₁₀, PM₂.₅, SO₂, NO₂, and trace metals (Pb and Ni), and the results were compared with the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS).The analysis revealed that PM₁₀ levels in residential areas ranged between 112–125 µg/m³, with Rambagh and Georgetown recording the highest values, nearly double the NAAQS limit of 60 µg/m³. Commercial a 150 µg/m³, while industrial zones such as the Naini Industrial Area peaked above reas exhibited even higher concentrations, with CMT and Johnstonganj exceeding 160 µg/m³, indicating severe exceedances. Similarly, PM₂.₅ concentrations ranged from 38–52 µg/m³ in residential areas, while commercial locations consistently surpassed 80 µg/m³, far above the NAAQS standard of 40 µg/m³. Industrial sites again recorded the highest PM₂.₅ levels, approaching 100 µg/m³.In contrast, gaseous pollutants showed moderate levels. SO₂ concentrations remained between 20–35 µg/m³ in residential and commercial zones and around 40 µg/m³ in industrial areas, all within the permissible limit of 80 µg/m³. NO₂ levels averaged 25–40 µg/m³ in residential areas, with commercial hotspots reaching 45 µg/m³, and industrial sites recording around 50 µg/m³, still below the standard of 80 µg/m³ but indicative of vehicular and industrial influence.Overall, the study demonstrates that particulate matter (PM₁₀ and PM₂.₅) is the most critical pollutant in Prayagraj, with concentrations 2–3 times higher than the standards, while SO₂ and NO₂ remained within safe limits. These findings highlight the urgent need for targeted emission control strategies focusing on traffic management, industrial regulation, and dust mitigation.