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Delhi Chokes Under Toxic Haze as Stubble Fires Rage
7 Nov
Summary
- AQI reaches 311, up from 202 a day earlier
- Stubble burning contributes up to 38% of Delhi's PM 2.5 pollution
- Forecasts show very poor air quality will persist through the weekend
On November 7, 2025, Delhi is grappling with a severe air pollution crisis, as the city's Air Quality Index (AQI) has soared to 311, firmly in the "very poor" category. This marks a significant increase from the previous day's reading of 202.
The primary driver of this pollution surge is the stubble burning taking place in neighboring states. According to the Centre's Decision Support System, stubble fires contributed an estimated 9.48% to Delhi's PM 2.5 pollution on November 7, the highest so far this winter. Forecasts show this contribution could surge to 38% by November 8 as northwesterly winds continue to transport smoke from the agricultural fires.
The situation is exacerbated by the calm local winds, dropping temperatures, and the lingering effects of firecrackers illegally burst in parts of the city to celebrate Gurpurab. This combination of factors has created a public health emergency, with the grey haze obscuring the typically clear blue sky and causing eye irritation, scratchy throats, and itchy skin for residents.
The Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi predicts that the very poor air quality conditions will persist through the upcoming weekend, underscoring the severity of the crisis and the need for immediate action to address the stubble burning and other pollution sources.
