Delhi Chokes On Thick Smog Day After Diwali, AQI Crosses 400 As Pollution Hits ‘Severe’ Level

Last Updated:November 09, 2026, 06:14 IST

Delhi AQI Today: Delhi AQI worsened a day after Diwali, with ITO recording 406 as thick smog covered several parts of the capital.

Delhi AQI Today: Air Quality Index of the national capital worsened a day after Diwali (Visuals from South Extension on Monday, November 9)

Delhi AQI Today: A thick blanket of smog engulfed the national capital on Monday, a day after Diwali, as air quality worsened across several parts of Delhi. The haze reduced visibility during the early morning hours, with pollution levels reaching the ‘Severe’ category in some areas.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Air Quality Index (AQI) at ITO stood at 406 around 4.20 am, falling in the ‘Severe’ category. Inderlok was also covered in dense smog, making visibility poor.

Other parts of the city continued to record ‘Very Poor’ air quality. Rajiv Chowk reported an AQI of 381 at around 1.30 am, while South Extension recorded 360 at approximately 4 am.

The worsening pollution situation has also triggered a political exchange, with opposition leaders questioning the government’s preparations and BJP leaders raising concerns over the criticism surrounding Diwali celebrations.

The deterioration comes a day after Diwali celebrations, when firecracker emissions added to the city’s existing pollution levels. Delhi’s average AQI stood at 376 on Sunday, compared with 369 a day earlier.

Of the 59 monitoring stations that recorded data on Sunday evening, 19 reported ‘Severe’ air quality, while 33 were in the ‘Very Poor’ category. Jahangirpuri recorded one of the highest readings, with an AQI of 460.

Why Is Delhi’s Air Quality Worsening?

Firecracker smoke, vehicle emissions and stubble burning in neighbouring states are among the factors contributing to the pollution. Weather conditions are also making it difficult for pollutants to disperse.

PM2.5 remained the main pollutant in Delhi on Sunday. These fine particles can enter deep into the lungs and pose health risks.

According to the Decision Support System for Delhi, the transport sector was expected to contribute 19 per cent of the city’s pollution on Sunday. Stubble burning was estimated to account for 3.5 per cent.

The Air Quality Early Warning System has forecast that Delhi’s air quality could remain in the ‘Severe’ category for several days from November 9. Low wind speeds and unfavourable ventilation conditions are expected to allow pollutants to accumulate over the city.

GRAP Stage III Restrictions In Force

Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is currently in force across Delhi-NCR to control rising pollution levels.

Under the CPCB’s classification, an AQI between 301 and 400 falls in the ‘Very Poor’ category, while readings between 401 and 500 are classified as ‘Severe’.

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What was Delhi’s Air Quality Index level immediately after Diwali?

A day after Diwali, a thick layer of smog engulfed Delhi as the overall air quality worsened, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossing 400 and hitting the ‘Severe’ level at several monitoring stations like ITO.

Which main factors and pollutants are driving Delhi’s worsening air pollution?

Delhi’s worsening air pollution is driven by firecracker smoke, vehicle emissions, and stubble burning in neighbouring states, alongside weather conditions that prevent pollutant dispersal. PM2.5 remained the main pollutant, posing serious health risks.

What anti-pollution measures are currently in place across Delhi-NCR?

Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is currently in force across Delhi-NCR to control the rising pollution levels and prevent further deterioration.

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Anushka Vats

Anushka Vats is a Sub-Editor at News18.com with a passion for storytelling and a curiosity that extends beyond the newsroom. She covers both national and international news. For more stories, you can …Read More

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