Gurgaon's Air Quality Hits Critical: 'Very Poor' for 6th Day

Gurgaon's air quality remained critically poor for the sixth consecutive day as of January 21, 2026, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) standing at 394. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has since revoked Stage-IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR).

Monitoring stations in Gurgaon showed concerning figures, with Vikas Sadan reporting an AQI of 420, classified as severe. This sustained high level of PM2.5, frequently breaching 300 throughout January, poses a prolonged exposure risk.

Air quality experts like Mohammad Rafiuddin from the Council on Energy, Environment and Water, anticipate the 'very poor' or worse conditions to continue for several days due to anticipated low wind speeds and cool temperatures. Rafiuddin stressed that while emergency measures are crucial, long-term solutions must focus on curbing emissions at their source across various sectors.

Health professionals have repeatedly warned about the severe health implications of prolonged exposure to such polluted air, particularly for vulnerable groups. Authorities attribute Gurgaon's winter pollution to a combination of vehicular emissions, road dust, construction, and adverse weather patterns.

In response to the ongoing pollution, residents are advised to minimize outdoor activities, avoid morning walks in busy areas, and use masks when unavoidable to mitigate health risks.