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Delhi Gasps: AQI Hits Record Levels
20 Jan
Summary
- Delhi's AQI is 410, marking third consecutive day above 400.
- The city faces its closest approach to four straight severe air days.
- Emergency curbs are in place but have not improved air quality.
As of January 20, 2026, Delhi is enduring its third consecutive day with an Air Quality Index (AQI) above 400, reaching 410. This alarming streak matches a record set in January 2021 and brings the city perilously close to unprecedented levels of prolonged severe pollution for the month. Emergency measures, including Stage-4 curbs under the Graded Response Action Plan (Grap), remain in effect but have so far failed to yield significant improvements in the air quality across the city.
The pollution crisis persists despite mid-January typically seeing gradual improvement. Many areas are experiencing near-toxic conditions, with Wazirpur recording an AQI of 473 and Vivek Vihar at 472 on Monday. The situation is particularly concerning as December was the most polluted in five years, and forecasts indicate air quality will likely remain hazardous for the coming days, potentially fluctuating between 'very poor' and 'poor' categories.
Experts emphasize the need for strict enforcement of restrictions, including vehicle movement and dust control, alongside public cooperation in adopting preventive measures. Systemic failures in tackling pollution have drawn criticism from the Supreme Court, which has demanded clear source identification and a long-term strategy. Modest relief is tentatively expected around January 23 with forecasts of light rain, linked to an active western disturbance.
