Despite the highest level of pollution control measures being in place, Delhi’s air quality showed no meaningful improvement on Monday morning. The capital continued to remain under a blanket of dense smog, with air quality levels firmly in the ‘hazardous’ category and visibility dropping sharply across several areas.
According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 456 at 6 am. In some locations, pollution levels touched the maximum measurable limit. Ashok Vihar, Wazirpur and Rohini recorded AQI readings of 500, while the AQI near Akshardham reached 493.
The situation has worsened with the onset of winter, as severe air pollution combined with dense fog, creating an extremely thick layer of haze over the city. In several parts of Delhi, visibility dropped to critically low levels, making early-morning travel increasingly difficult.
The impact was clearly felt at the Indira Gandhi International Airport, where visibility fell to just 50 metres around 7 am. As a result, multiple flights were delayed. Airport authorities and airlines have issued advisories to passengers, warning of potential delays and disruptions due to poor visibility.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for dense fog, advising residents to exercise caution while commuting, especially during early morning hours. Many commuters reported difficulty seeing even a few metres ahead on city roads.
Under CPCB standards:
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AQI 0–50 is considered good
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51–100 satisfactory
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101–200 moderate
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201–300 poor
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301–400 very poor
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401–500 hazardous
Delhi’s average AQI has not dropped below 401 for several consecutive days. On Saturday, the city recorded an AQI of 431, which worsened to 461 on Sunday. Although Monday’s average showed a marginal dip, experts say the improvement is negligible and offers little relief.
With pollution levels remaining critically high and weather conditions unfavourable, there is no immediate sign of relief for the capital.
