New Delhi, October 18, 2025:
Delhi air quality poor ahead of Diwali has once again become a major public concern. The national capital recorded a consistent rise in pollution levels this week, staying in the ‘poor’ category for the fourth straight day, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
At 4 p.m., Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 254, putting it squarely in the ‘poor’ range. Experts warn that the situation may worsen as winter and festival-related emissions increase.
Delhi and NCR Among Most Polluted in India
Ghaziabad topped the list with an AQI of 306 (‘very poor’) — the worst air quality in India on Friday. Other cities in the NCR, such as Noida (278) and Gurugram (266), also recorded poor air quality. Faridabad, however, remained in the moderate range with an AQI of 105.
Out of 38 monitoring stations in Delhi, five recorded ‘very poor’ readings:
- Anand Vihar (382)
- Wazirpur (351)
- Jahangirpuri (342)
- Bawana (315)
- Siri Fort (309)
According to the CPCB, Delhi air quality poor ahead of Diwali began deteriorating around October 14, and pollution has continued to build since.
Hazy Skies and High Emissions
Across the city, hazy skies and low visibility have become common. At Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, AQI levels stood at 252, while Akshardham recorded 230. Prominent landmarks such as India Gate also remained under ‘poor’ air conditions throughout the day.
Authorities have deployed truck-mounted sprinklers to settle dust on roads. Data from the Decision Support System (DSS) showed that transport emissions were the largest contributor to the city’s air pollution, accounting for 17.9% of total emissions.
Satellite images also revealed stubble burning across neighboring states — Punjab (20 fires), Haryana (2), and Uttar Pradesh (49) — worsening Delhi’s air quality poor ahead of Diwali week.
Forecast: ‘Poor to Very Poor’ in Coming Days
The Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi predicts that Delhi air quality poor ahead of Diwali will likely continue over the next week. As temperatures drop, pollutants tend to stay trapped near the ground, making the air quality even worse.
Weather data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) showed:
- Maximum temperature: 32.6°C (0.6°C below normal)
- Minimum temperature: 18.4°C (1.2°C below normal)
- Humidity: 74% (morning), 61% (evening)
Saturday’s forecast includes a misty morning and a maximum temperature near 33°C.
Health Experts Warn Citizens to Take Precautions
Doctors have raised alarms about the health risks linked to Delhi air quality poor ahead of Diwali.
Pulmonologist Dr. Sharad Joshi told ANI that the worsening AQI has increased cases of asthma, COPD, and respiratory distress.
“Air pollutants from vehicles, stubble burning, and fireworks worsen breathing problems,” Dr. Joshi said. “Even healthy people, especially children and seniors, are at risk.”
He added that ‘green crackers’ are safer but not pollution-free. Dr. Joshi also advised residents to carpool, use public transport, and avoid burning incense indoors.
How to Stay Safe During Poor Air Quality
Here are simple steps to protect your health:
- Use N95 masks outdoors.
- Run air purifiers indoors.
- Keep windows closed during peak pollution hours.
- Drink plenty of fluids and maintain lung health.
- Monitor daily AQI levels on the official CPCB website (https://cpcb.nic.in).
- Learn about Delhi’s air pollution control measures on the Delhi Government Environment Portal (https://environment.delhi.gov.in).
