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Record Pollution Grips Delhi: Weather Not Sole Culprit
19 Dec
Summary
- Delhi's average AQI for December is the second worst since 2015.
- Pollution levels this December are the most severe on record since 2018.
- Adverse weather conditions alone cannot explain the record pollution.
As of December 18, 2025, Delhi has experienced eight consecutive days of very poor or severe air quality, with the AQI reaching 373 on December 18th. The average AQI for the month is 343, the second highest since 2015. Data since 2018, when monitoring became more representative, shows this December is the most polluted on record for this period.
Analysis indicates that adverse weather conditions alone are not responsible for the alarming pollution levels. Despite dry weather, which prevents pollutants from being washed away, and relatively warmer temperatures than in previous years, the air quality remains critical. While wind speed and humidity are factors, they have not been sufficient to bring the air quality to moderate levels consistently.
The accumulation of pollutants near the ground is a characteristic of Delhi's cooler months, but long-term solutions require tackling the sources of pollution. Without intervention, Delhi risks setting new pollution records annually, highlighting the urgent need for effective measures beyond relying on favorable weather patterns.
