A thick layer of toxic haze continued to blanket India’s capital as air pollution stayed at hazardous levels for yet another day. Delhi’s overall Air Quality Index remained in the very poor to severe range, raising serious public health concerns across the city and surrounding National Capital Region.
On Thursday morning, Delhi recorded an AQI of 376, more than 25 times higher than the World Health Organization’s recommended limit. Fine particulate matter, known as PM2.5, remained the primary pollutant. Health experts warn prolonged exposure increases risks for respiratory and heart conditions, with children and seniors facing the highest danger.
In response, the Delhi government ordered government and private offices to shift 50 percent of staff to work from home. Authorities also enforced multiple pollution control steps. These include a ban on older diesel vehicles, suspension of construction activities, hybrid schooling for students, and restrictions on vehicles failing to meet emission standards.
Official data showed the city’s 24 hour average AQI climbed to 373 on Thursday, up from 334 the previous day. Out of 40 monitoring stations, 15 reported severe air quality. Anand Vihar recorded the highest AQI at 441, placing it in the severe plus category.
According to the Central Pollution Control Board, transport emerged as the largest pollution source, contributing 18.3 percent. Industrial emissions accounted for 9.2 percent, followed by residential sources at 4.5 percent and construction activities at 2.5 percent. Pollution from neighbouring NCR districts such as Jhajjar, Sonipat, and Rohtak also added heavily to Delhi’s pollution load.
The Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi warned air quality will stay in the very poor category through Friday and Saturday, with a possible slide into severe conditions by Sunday as winter weather patterns persist.
