Delhi Air Quality Crisis: AQI Reaches Very Poor Level

Description :

Delhi faces severe air pollution as AQI nears 380, prompting health advisories, school closures, and calls for urgent government action.

Published on: 18 November 2025 | 09:30 AM (GMT+05:30, IST, India)
Published by: Mr. Dibakar Mandal

Introduction

Delhi, India’s capital, is once again grappling with a severe air quality crisis, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) hovering near 380 — classified as ‘Very Poor.’ The thick layer of smog enveloping the city has triggered a range of emergency measures, including health advisories, hybrid school schedules for children, and restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-3).

The persistent toxic haze has left residents facing breathing difficulties, eye irritation, and heightened risks for respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Hospitals in Delhi have reported a noticeable increase in patients presenting with asthma, bronchitis, and other pollution-related ailments.

This latest spike in pollution coincides with meteorological conditions such as low wind speeds, high humidity, and cooler night temperatures, which trap pollutants close to the ground. The main contributors to Delhi’s worsening air quality include vehicular emissions, industrial discharge, biomass burning in neighboring states, and construction dust. Environmentalists warn that without coordinated action across Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab, the situation could deteriorate further.

Air quality experts have urged the government to accelerate interventions like stricter vehicular emission norms, enhanced monitoring, and curbs on stubble burning in neighboring states. Measures like shutting down heavy polluting industries temporarily, promoting public transport, and increasing green cover are being suggested to mitigate the crisis.

Globally, cities like Beijing, Lahore, and Cairo have experienced similar smog-related emergencies, highlighting the urgent need for effective air pollution control policies. The World Health Organization (WHO) continues to classify air pollution as a major environmental risk, linking it to over seven million premature deaths annually (WHO – Air Pollution, BBC Environment).

The Delhi government has also recommended the use of air purifiers in homes and offices, and advised limiting outdoor events, particularly for schools and eldercare facilities. Public health officials have called for residents to remain vigilant and follow daily AQI updates to reduce exposure.

Context and Background

Delhi’s Pollution Problem

Delhi has consistently ranked among the most polluted capitals in the world. Seasonal factors like winter temperature inversion trap pollutants, while human activities exacerbate air quality deterioration. Vehicular emissions contribute nearly 30% of particulate matter (PM2.5) in the air, while industrial emissions and stubble burning account for a significant share.

Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)

To manage pollution, Delhi implements the GRAP system, which introduces measures based on the severity of AQI. Under GRAP-3, restrictions include limiting construction activities, halting coal-based power plants in NCR, and promoting online work where possible. Schools often shift to hybrid or online modes to protect students’ health.

Health Impacts

Exposure to very poor AQI levels has both short- and long-term health consequences. Short-term effects include respiratory distress, eye irritation, and fatigue, while prolonged exposure can contribute to cardiovascular diseases, reduced lung function, and chronic respiratory disorders. Global research emphasizes that urban air pollution significantly increases mortality risks (UNEP Air Quality, Reuters Health).

Global Comparisons

Cities worldwide face similar crises. Beijing regularly implements “red alert” pollution measures, Lahore experiences seasonal smog due to stubble burning, and Cairo struggles with industrial emissions. International collaboration and innovative policy interventions, including sustainable urban planning, have been crucial in mitigating these crises.

Government and Public Response

1. School Adjustments

Delhi’s Department of Education has shifted junior classes to hybrid learning (online/offline) to minimize children’s exposure. Students are advised to wear masks and avoid outdoor sports.

2. Public Health Advisories

Authorities recommend staying indoors during peak pollution hours, using N95 masks, and monitoring health symptoms. Air purifiers are encouraged for homes and offices.

3. Transport and Industrial Measures

Vehicle restrictions, odd-even traffic schemes, and temporary halts to industrial operations are considered essential to curtail emissions. Authorities urge citizens to use public transportation.

4. Citizen Action and Protests

Protesters demanding urgent action on air pollution have rallied near India Gate, with dozens detained during demonstrations (BBC News – Delhi Air Pollution, Al Jazeera Environment).

5. Meteorological and Seasonal Factors

Low wind speeds, temperature inversion layers, and cooler winters worsen smog levels. Experts recommend long-term strategies, including urban forestry and emission reductions.

6. Technological Solutions

Air quality monitoring apps, real-time AQI dashboards, and predictive forecasting tools are being deployed. Smart city initiatives aim to track vehicular and industrial emissions to inform rapid response measures.

Conclusion

Delhi’s persistent air quality crisis highlights the urgent need for coordinated action between local, state, and neighboring governments. While emergency measures like GRAP-3 restrictions and school hybridization mitigate immediate risks, sustainable long-term strategies — including pollution control, green infrastructure, and public awareness — are crucial. Citizens, policymakers, and environmental experts must collaborate to ensure the capital can breathe cleaner air in the future.

FAQs

1. What is Delhi’s current AQI level?

As of 19 November 2025, Delhi’s AQI is around 380, placing it in the ‘Very Poor’ category and posing health risks to all age groups.

2. What are the main causes of Delhi’s air pollution?

Key contributors include vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, construction dust, and stubble burning in nearby states.

3. How is GRAP-3 implemented in Delhi?

Under GRAP-3, construction and industrial activity may be restricted, schools shift to online learning, and public advisories are issued to reduce exposure.

4. What health precautions should residents take?

Residents are advised to stay indoors during peak pollution, use N95 masks, operate air purifiers, and seek medical attention if respiratory symptoms worsen.

5. Are there global parallels to Delhi’s air pollution?

Yes, cities like Beijing, Lahore, and Cairo experience similar seasonal pollution crises due to industrial emissions, stubble burning, and weather conditions.

External Authoritative Sources

• WHO – Ambient Air Pollution
• UNEP – Air Quality and Health
• BBC News – Delhi Air Pollution
• Al Jazeera – Pollution in India
• Reuters Environment