Delhi’s Air Quality Worsens to Very Poor with Severe Pollution in Many Areas
Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) rose sharply to 373, classifying the air as 'very poor' on Sunday, with multiple areas recording 'severe' pollution levels above 400. Contributing factors include winter smog, stubble burning, and low wind speeds. The government is enforcing transport restrictions and experimenting with cloud seeding, though experts criticize its effectiveness.
On November 2, 2025, Delhi's air quality deteriorated significantly, with an AQI reaching 373, putting it firmly in the 'very poor' category. Fifteen monitoring stations recorded 'severe' pollution levels exceeding 400, including hotspots such as Wazirpur, RK Puram, Bawana, and Rohini. The worsening air quality is attributed to dense winter smog, reduced wind speed, vehicular emissions, stubble burning in neighboring states, and industrial pollution. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and the Commission for Air Quality Management have imposed restrictions including bans on entry for most commercial vehicles except those compliant with BS-VI norms and using cleaner fuels. Additionally, the Delhi government spent Rs 34 crore on a cloud seeding experiment aimed at inducing artificial rainfall to reduce pollution, but this has drawn criticism from experts and opposition leaders who consider it ineffective and expensive due to limited coverage and dependency on specific weather conditions. The Graded Response Action Plan (Stage 2) is active, enforcing further bans on coal and firewood use, diesel generators, and enforcing dust control measures at construction sites. Political leaders urged urgent governmental action as the city experiences its annual peak pollution period, often the most polluted fortnight linked to seasonal factors and emissions practices. These conditions reduce visibility and pose significant public health risks in the national capital and its vicinity.
