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Delhi Chokes: Coldest December Day Meets Severe Air Pollution
19 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Delhi's AQI reached 373, entering the 'Very Poor' category.
- The day was Delhi's coldest December day this season, with a maximum temperature of 20.1°C.
- Dense fog and calm winds severely limited pollutant dispersal across the NCR.
Delhi's air quality deteriorated significantly, reaching an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 373 and entering the 'Very Poor' category on Thursday. This alarming trend coincided with the coldest December day recorded this season, with the maximum temperature dipping to 20.1 degrees Celsius. Dense fog and stagnant weather conditions prevented pollutants from dispersing, exacerbating the smog.
Forecasts indicate that the air quality is likely to remain in the 'Very Poor' to 'Severe' range until at least Saturday, with a projected dip into the 'Severe' category by Sunday. Meteorological indicators, including a sharp decrease in the ventilation index and reduced mixing depth, suggest highly unfavourable conditions for pollution dilution over the upcoming weekend.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has also highlighted persistent issues with open waste burning, urging stricter enforcement. The IMD issued a yellow alert, forecasting moderate to dense fog and mist, with maximum temperatures expected to rise after December 21, a pattern that typically intensifies winter pollution episodes.
