Delhi AQI: The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi was recorded as alarmingly high on Saturday (October 18, 2025) at 254 at 7 am. The air quality in the national capital has remained in the 'poor category ' for five consecutive days, with the pollution level surging ahead of Diwali. Most of the places saw a sharp rise in pollution levels, including Akshardham, which registered a poor AQI of 230 this morning. The decline in the air purity is expected to continue, according to the Air Quality Early Warning System.
Earlier, on October 14, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) invoked all actions under Stage of extant schedule of GRAP-1 in Delhi-NCR. The restrictions under the Graded Response Action were implemented to help curb pollution and protect public health during this period. While AQI plunged to 323 under the 'very poor' category in Wazirpur, Jahangirpuri recorded an air quality index of 273 at 7 am on October 18. The other regions include Rohini (227), Vivek Vihar (217), Ashok Vihar (214), Sonia Vihar (198), Patparganj (197), Chandni Chowk (184), Okhla Phase 2 (174), and Najafgarh (174).
With the arrival of winter, the city is witnessing a significant rise in pollution levels, a common trend attributed to increased vehicle emissions, industrial activity, and seasonal changes like crop burning in nearby regions. The steady calm winds further contribute to the trapping of pollutants closer to the ground, worsening air quality.
According to the Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi, the air quality is very likely to be in the poor category until October 18, 2025. The outlook for the subsequent 6 Days: The air quality is likely to be in the poor category, becoming very poor category during October 20-21.