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Delhi Chokes Under Toxic Smog Ahead of Diwali
18 Oct
Summary
- Delhi's air quality remains 'poor' for 5 consecutive days
- 9 monitoring stations in 'very poor' category
- Transport emissions largest contributor to pollution
As of October 18, 2025, Delhi's air quality has continued to deteriorate, remaining in the 'poor' category for the fifth consecutive day. The city recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 268, indicating poor air quality.
Within the National Capital Region (NCR), Ghaziabad reported a 'very poor' AQI of 324, while Noida and Gurugram remained in the 'poor' category with AQIs of 298 and 258, respectively. Out of the 38 monitoring stations in the capital, nine reported air quality in the 'very poor' category, with some locations inching towards the 'severe' zone.
The primary contributor to Delhi's air pollution on Saturday was transport emissions, accounting for 15.6% of the total emissions. The weather conditions, with a maximum temperature of 33.5 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 19.6 degrees Celsius, have also contributed to the poor air quality.
The situation is expected to worsen in the coming days, as the Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi has issued a similar forecast. Residents of the capital city are bracing for a challenging period ahead of the Diwali festival, as the city grapples with the ongoing air pollution crisis.
