What is the current state of Delhi's air quality?

Delhi's air quality has taken a turn for the worse, with nitrogen dioxide (NO2) levels surging to three times the national safe limit at multiple locations across the city.

What are the health risks associated with the high NO2 levels in Delhi?

Prolonged exposure to elevated NO2 levels can exacerbate asthma and respiratory infections, while short-term exposure can cause wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing.

Home / Environment / Delhi Gasps for Breath as Toxic Nitrogen Dioxide Levels Surge to 3 Times Safe Limit

Delhi Gasps for Breath as Toxic Nitrogen Dioxide Levels Surge to 3 Times Safe Limit

Q: How high are the NO2 levels in Delhi?

The hourly NO2 concentration has peaked at 240µg/m³ at the IGI Airport (T3) station, which is three times the national safe standard of 80µg/m³ and nearly 10 times the World Health Organisation's stricter limit of 25µg/m³.

8 Nov

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Summary

Nitrogen dioxide levels in Delhi reach 3 times the national safe limit
Hazardous PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations also remain high
Prolonged exposure to elevated NO2 levels exacerbates health issues

Delhi Gasps for Breath as Toxic Nitrogen Dioxide Levels Surge to 3 Times Safe Limit

On November 8, 2025, Delhi's air quality crisis has taken a concerning turn, with nitrogen dioxide (NO2) levels reaching alarming heights across the city. According to the latest data from the Central Pollution Control Board, the hourly NO2 concentration has peaked at 240µg/m³ at the IGI Airport (T3) station, which is three times the national safe standard of 80µg/m³ and nearly 10 times the World Health Organisation's stricter limit of 25µg/m³.

The high NO2 levels have been recorded at several other key locations in the city, including the ITO intersection (221µg/m³), North Campus of Delhi University (210µg/m³), Lodhi Road (181µg/m³), Mundka (178µg/m³), and JLN Stadium. Experts attribute these spikes to a combination of vehicular emissions, biomass burning, and industrial activities, with traffic congestion emerging as a significant contributing factor.