Delhi is in the midst of a severe air pollution episode. The city’s Air Quality Index, or AQI, has risen considerably in the last few days. According to the CPCB, the AQI reached 390 on the evening of December 2, 2025, as against 304 on Monday and 279 on Sunday.
Nineteen of the 39 monitoring stations recorded AQI above 400, classifying the air as hazardous to health. Among these were Burari, Anand Vihar, Mundka, Bawana, Vivek Vihar, Rohini, Sonia Vihar, Ashok Vihar and Punjabi Bagh.
Delhi Forecast & Anticipated Trends
However, it may be sometime before Delhi’s air quality improves. According to forecasts by the Air Quality Early Warning System, the capital is expected to remain in the “very poor” category at least until December 5, 2025.
These forecasts predict that residents may experience smoggy and polluted conditions for the next several days, thus emphasizing the urgency of preventive measures and public awareness.
Understanding AQI Levels
AQI categories are defined, for context, as follows:
- 0–50: Good
- 51–100: Satisfactory
- 101–200: Moderate
- 201–300: Poor
- 301–400: Very Poor
- 401–500: Severe
As many districts breached the 400 mark, Delhi officially entered the severe bracket, indicating severe health hazards, especially for children, the aged and people suffering from respiratory disorders.
Major Contributors to Pollution
Transportation continues to be the biggest contributor, accounting for as much as 18.4% of the city’s pollution on December 2. Industries and surrounding urban towns also contribute majorly Noida (8.2%), Ghaziabad (4.6%), Baghpat (6.2%), Panipat (3.3%) and Gurugram (2.9%).
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According to experts, transport emissions alone will account for approximately 15.6% of Delhi’s pollution on December 3.
Pollution Heightens due to Cold Weather
But an unusually early cold snap has only added to the problem. On December 1, temperatures dropped to 5.7°C, the lowest first-week-of-December reading since 2011. Such cold, north westerly winds also trap pollutants close to the ground, which can increase the severity of smog and prolong hazardous air conditions.
Typically, early December temperatures hover between 7°C and 11°C; this year’s dip is an outlier that has worsened the pollution crisis.
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Disclaimer: Air quality data is based on CPCB readings and forecasts actual conditions may vary. Follow local advisories for safety.
