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Delhi Chokes Under Toxic Haze as Pollution Levels Soar
16 Oct
Summary
- Stubble burning in neighboring states worsens Delhi's air quality
- Festive traffic and firecracker use add to pollution burden
- Air quality index reaches 'very poor' levels in parts of Delhi-NCR
As of October 16th, 2025, Delhi-NCR is grappling with a severe air pollution crisis. A thick layer of haze has blanketed the region, with calm winds and rising ground-level ozone pushing air quality deeper into the 'poor' and 'very poor' range.
The increase in pollution levels is consistent with the post-monsoon transition, when dropping temperatures, high humidity, and low wind speeds combine to trap pollutants near the surface. However, an additional factor has exacerbated the situation - increased stubble burning in neighboring states.
According to data from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, 688 burning events were detected in six states in the past week, with the highest number occurring in Uttar Pradesh at 271, followed by Punjab at 176. This, combined with the festive season's traffic congestion and firecracker use, has added significantly to Delhi's pollution burden.
The air quality index (AQI) in several parts of Delhi-NCR has reached 'very poor' levels, with Noida and parts of East and Outer Delhi seeing the sharpest spikes in PM2.5 concentrations. The situation is expected to persist, with the India Meteorological Department forecasting mist, haze, and shallow fog over the next few days.
