Delhi AQI Hits 391, 30 Monitoring Stations Record Severe Pollution Ahead of Diwali

Thick smog blanketed Delhi on Friday, with air quality deteriorating sharply and the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) climbing to 391, bringing the national capital close to the severe pollution category just two days ahead of Diwali on November 8.

Of the 59 air quality monitoring stations across the city, 30 recorded severe pollution levels at 9 am, while the remaining stations reported very poor air quality. Rohini emerged as the most polluted area, recording an AQI of 475, followed by IIT Delhi at 472.

According to the Air Quality Early Warning System, Delhi is likely to experience its first severe air quality day of the season on Friday, with unhealthy conditions expected to continue until November 8. The AQI climbed from 389 at 8 am to 391 an hour later, reflecting the worsening pollution levels.

The deterioration comes during the peak period of stubble burning in the National Capital Region (NCR), which contributes to the seasonal rise in pollution. Emissions from firecrackers during Diwali celebrations could further increase the pollution burden, with several pollution hotspots potentially recording AQI levels above 450.

Under the Central Pollution Control Board’s classification, an AQI between 301 and 400 falls in the very poor category, while readings between 401 and 500 are classified as severe.

Meanwhile, Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 17.2 degrees Celsius at Safdarjung, 1.9 degrees above the seasonal normal. The India Meteorological Department has forecast a maximum temperature of around 30 degrees Celsius, with shallow fog likely during the morning.

Shallow fog is expected to persist in the capital until November 9, potentially adding to the difficult conditions as the city heads into the festive period.