New Delhi | January 4, 2026
Delhi Air Quality Slips Into ‘Very Poor’ Zone, Pollution to Persist for Three Days
Delhi’s air quality has once again deteriorated sharply, entering the “very poor” category, with pollution levels expected to remain severe for the next three days, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
On Sunday, the capital recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 307, reflecting a sharp increase of nearly 40 points compared to the previous day. Officials attributed the decline to sluggish wind speed and shifting wind direction, which trapped pollutants over the region.
Gurgaon Emerges as NCR’s Most Polluted City
Across the National Capital Region (NCR), Gurgaon reported the worst air quality, registering an AQI of 333, firmly in the very poor category.
Other NCR cities reported the following AQI levels:
Greater Noida: 316 (Very Poor)
Noida: 307 (Very Poor)
Ghaziabad: 298 (Poor to Very Poor)
Faridabad: 215 (Poor) — the cleanest among NCR cities
Vehicular Emissions Remain the Top Pollutant
According to Delhi’s Decision Support System (DSS) for air quality management, vehicular emissions were the largest contributor to pollution, accounting for 13.74% of the total load.
Other pollution sources included:
Peripheral industries: 11.53%
Residential emissions: 3.40%
Construction activities: 1.79%
Road dust resuspension: 0.92%
On Sunday, winds blew from the northwest at 5 km/h, while the ventilation index stood at 5,910 m²/s, limiting the dispersion of pollutants.
PM Levels Exceed Safe Limits
By 4:00 PM, monitoring stations recorded:
PM10: 233.4 µg/m³
PM2.5: 135.8 µg/m³
Both values remain well above safe limits, posing serious health risks, especially to children, elderly individuals, and people with respiratory conditions.
Health Advisory Issued
The CPCB has warned that air quality is likely to remain in the very poor category until at least Wednesday, increasing the risk of:
Breathing discomfort
Eye irritation
Persistent coughing
Headaches and fatigue
Health experts advise residents to limit outdoor exposure, avoid strenuous activities, and use protective masks if stepping outside.
