New Delhi | November 10, 2025
Delhi’s air quality continues to worsen, recording its second-worst Air Quality Index (AQI) of the season on Sunday. The capital’s average AQI was 370, falling in the upper “very poor” category and inching closer to the “severe” range. The city has now witnessed four consecutive days of deteriorating air quality, raising serious health and environmental concerns.
Delhi’s Smog Worsens as AQI Inches Toward ‘Severe’
Residents of Delhi woke up to another thick blanket of toxic smog, as pollution levels reached near-severe levels in the morning. At 8 a.m., the city’s AQI touched 391, dangerously close to the “severe” category (401 and above). Pollution levels remained high till late morning before easing slightly by afternoon due to improved wind speeds of 14–15 km/h, which helped disperse pollutants.
By 4 p.m., Delhi’s 24-hour average AQI improved slightly to 370, though air quality remained hazardous for sensitive groups.
Low Contribution from Stubble Burning in Punjab and Haryana
According to the Decision Support System (DSS), the contribution of stubble burning (farm fires) from Punjab and Haryana to Delhi’s PM2.5 concentration dropped to 5.3% on Sunday, compared to 8% on Saturday.
Meteorological experts said the improvement was driven by a change in wind direction. “The wind shifted from northwesterly to westerly and southwesterly, which reduced the transport of smoke from Punjab and Haryana,” said meteorologist Mahesh Palawat.
Unlike previous years, when stubble burning contributed up to 40% of Delhi’s air pollution, this season’s impact has so far stayed below 10%.
CAQM Holds Back GRAP-III Restrictions
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) reviewed Delhi’s pollution levels but decided not to invoke Stage-III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) — which includes bans on construction, industrial activity, and entry of certain vehicles.
The CAQM noted a declining trend through the day: “Delhi’s AQI reduced from 391 at 10 a.m. to 370 at 4 p.m., and further to 365 at 5 p.m. Forecasts from IMD and IITM indicate that the air quality will stay in the ‘very poor’ category over the next few days.”
The Air Quality Early Warning System also predicted that Delhi’s AQI will remain in the ‘very poor’ range from November 10 to 12, with similar conditions expected to continue for the rest of the week.
Delhi Government Pushes Pollution Control Measures
Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said the government is ramping up anti-pollution measures, including water sprinkling, stricter industrial emission checks, and enhanced monitoring systems.
He criticized the previous administration, saying: “The damage caused by a decade of inaction cannot be reversed in seven months. The earlier government spent on publicity, not solutions. We are focusing on fixing the core pollution sources.”
Cold Wave Intensifies as Pollution Persists
Delhi also witnessed a dip in temperatures, adding to the discomfort. The minimum temperature fell to 11.6°C, three degrees below normal, while the maximum temperature reached 28.1°C, slightly above normal. Saturday had recorded the season’s lowest minimum at 11°C.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast shallow fog on Monday morning, with temperatures expected to remain steady over the next few days.
Delhi Air Quality: Health and Safety Outlook
Experts warn that prolonged exposure to air with an AQI above 300 can cause severe respiratory and cardiovascular problems, especially among children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions. Health officials recommend:
- Avoiding outdoor activities during early morning and late evening hours
- Using N95 masks or higher-grade respirators outdoors
- Running air purifiers indoors and keeping windows closed
- Staying hydrated and maintaining indoor ventilation with clean air filters
