New Delhi, November 2, 2026: Delhi’s air pollution crisis has intensified ahead of Diwali, with the national capital’s Air Quality Index (AQI) crossing the 300 mark for the first time this season. A thick layer of smog has covered several parts of the city, raising health concerns as residents prepare for the upcoming festival.
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s AQI reached 307 at around 7:05 am on Monday, November 2, placing the city in the ‘Very Poor’ category. The sharp deterioration comes just days after rainfall and strong winds briefly improved air quality across the capital.
Delhi AQI Crosses 300: Several Areas Record High Pollution
Air quality has deteriorated across multiple parts of Delhi, with a majority of monitoring stations reporting elevated pollution levels.
Out of 58 monitoring stations reporting data, 36 recorded ‘Very Poor’ air quality, while Jahangirpuri entered the ‘Severe’ category with an AQI of 417.
Other heavily affected areas also reported concerning readings, including Punjabi Bagh, Rohini, Alipur, Mundka and Vivek Vihar.
The CPCB classifies AQI levels as follows:
| AQI Range | Air Quality Category |
|---|---|
| 0–50 | Good |
| 51–100 | Satisfactory |
| 101–200 | Moderate |
| 201–300 | Poor |
| 301–400 | Very Poor |
| 401–500 | Severe |
What Is Causing Delhi’s Air Pollution?
Several factors are contributing to the worsening air quality in Delhi-NCR.
1. Stubble Burning: Farm fires in neighbouring Punjab and Haryana continue to contribute to pollution. NASA satellite observations detected 1,394 farm fires across the two states between October 1 and November 1.
2. Vehicular Emissions: Heavy traffic and vehicle exhaust remain significant sources of pollution in the capital.
3. Weather Conditions: Falling temperatures, low wind speeds and unfavourable atmospheric conditions are preventing pollutants from dispersing effectively.
4. Construction and Industrial Activities: Dust from construction sites, road traffic and industrial emissions add to the existing pollution burden.
According to the Decision Support System for air quality management, stubble burning contributed approximately 18.57% to Delhi’s pollution on Sunday, November 1.
Air Quality May Worsen Further Before Diwali
Weather experts have warned that pollution levels could remain elevated over the coming days.
The Air Quality Early Warning System forecasts that Delhi’s air quality could deteriorate further into the ‘Very Poor’ category by November 4. The outlook for the following six days also indicates a possibility of ‘Poor’ to ‘Very Poor’ conditions.
The approaching Diwali celebrations have added to concerns, as firecracker emissions could further increase particulate pollution across Delhi and neighbouring areas.
Anti-Pollution Measures Come Into Effect
Authorities have started implementing winter pollution-control measures to tackle the worsening situation.
The restrictions include curbs on dust-generating construction and demolition activities, restrictions on older vehicles entering Delhi and measures encouraging reduced office attendance.
Officials are also monitoring pollution levels and coordinating with neighbouring states to address the multiple sources contributing to the region’s deteriorating air quality.
How Can Delhi Residents Protect Themselves?
With pollution levels entering the ‘Very Poor’ category, residents are advised to take precautions:
- Avoid prolonged outdoor activities, particularly during early mornings and late evenings.
- Wear a well-fitted N95 mask when travelling outdoors.
- Keep windows closed during periods of heavy pollution.
- Use an air purifier indoors, if available.
- Children, senior citizens and people with respiratory or heart conditions should take extra precautions.
- Seek medical attention if experiencing persistent breathing difficulties or chest discomfort.
Delhi Faces a Challenging Diwali Season
Delhi’s latest AQI reading is a worrying sign as the capital enters the peak winter pollution season. With stubble burning, vehicular emissions, unfavourable weather and upcoming festive activities contributing to the pollution burden, maintaining healthier air quality will remain a major challenge.
Residents will be hoping for favourable weather conditions and effective pollution-control measures to prevent air quality from deteriorating further during Diwali.
For now, health experts and authorities are urging people to stay informed, minimise exposure to polluted air and follow official advisories.
