What is Delhi's current air quality index (AQI)?

Delhi's AQI was recorded at 324 on Friday morning, falling into the 'very poor' category.

Are farm fires still the main cause of Delhi's air pollution?

No, recent assessments indicate that local pollution sources, mainly vehicles and combustion, are now the primary drivers of Delhi's poor air quality.

What weather conditions are expected in Delhi with the poor air quality?

Delhi is expected to experience a cloudy sky with shallow morning fog and cold wave conditions.

Home / Weather / Delhi Chokes: Air Quality Plummets to 'Very Poor'

Delhi Chokes: Air Quality Plummets to 'Very Poor'

5 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Delhi's air quality index reached 324, categorized as 'very poor'.
Local pollution sources like vehicles are now primary concerns.
Cold wave conditions and shallow fog are predicted for the day.

Delhi Chokes: Air Quality Plummets to 'Very Poor'

Delhi's air quality significantly worsened on Friday, with the national capital's AQI reaching 324, firmly in the 'very poor' category. This deterioration occurred despite a notable decrease in pollution from farm fires, pointing to escalating local pollution sources such as vehicles and combustion. Thirty-one out of forty monitoring stations recorded 'very poor' levels, with RK Puram experiencing the highest pollution.

The Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi has predicted a cloudy sky with morning fog and cold wave conditions. The India Meteorological Department expects the minimum temperature to be around 5 degrees Celsius, with a slight drop in the maximum temperature. Prevailing northwest winds are anticipated to remain consistent throughout the day.

A recent assessment by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) reveals a worrying trend of worsening air quality in smaller NCR towns and a risk of reversing long-term gains in Delhi. The report emphasizes the growing toxicity from nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide, urging a fundamental shift in infrastructure and systems to curb emissions from various sources.