Delhi chokes on Diwali eve as air quality dips to ‘very poor’; AQI crosses 300

Air pollution in the national capital worsened on Sunday, with the air quality slipping into the ‘very poor’ category on the eve of Diwali.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 304 at 8 pm on Sunday. Earlier, the 4 pm bulletin had placed the city’s overall AQI at 296.

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Residents of Delhi reported breathing discomfort due to the worsening air quality as pollution levels rose sharply.

An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered “good,” 51–100 “satisfactory,” 101–200 “moderate,” 201–300 “poor,” 301–400 “very poor,” and 401–500 “severe.”

According to the CPCB, when the AQI falls in the ‘poor’ category, prolonged exposure can cause breathing discomfort to most people. Under the ‘very poor’ category, it may lead to respiratory illnesses on extended exposure.

Priyanka and Shashi, residents of Delhi, said pollution levels had increased noticeably in recent days. They complained of breathing difficulties, eye irritation, and sore throats, prompting them to wear masks outdoors. “Pollution has made it extremely hard to breathe,” they said.

As per CPCB data, the AQI around India Gate was recorded at 269 (‘poor’ category) on Sunday morning. Water sprinklers were deployed in the area to control dust and pollution.

The AQI around Akshardham was recorded at 426 (‘severe’ category), while ITO and Barapulla registered 284 and 290, respectively — both in the ‘poor’ category.

Meanwhile, in response to the seasonal spike in pollution, which typically occurs between October and February, the Delhi government led by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has launched a comprehensive Winter Action Plan for 2025–26. The initiative was announced by Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa on Thursday.

The plan outlines 25 key measures across seven thematic areas: road dust, vehicular emissions, industrial and power sector pollution, open burning and solid waste, citizen engagement, monitoring, and green innovation. It will be implemented in coordination with over 30 departments and agencies across the capital.