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A new CSE report reveals that Delhi-NCR’s winter air has remained dangerously toxic for seven consecutive years, with PM2.5 levels far exceeding safe limits. Despite minor variations, pollution levels show no real improvement, while multiple hotspots continue to worsen.
CSE Flags Alarming Winter Pollution in Delhi-NCR
New Delhi: A new report from the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) has revealed a shocking truth about the air quality in Delhi-NCR. The report states that PM 2.5 levels have remained extremely dangerous during the winter season for the past seven years (2019-2025). The average PM 2.5 level during October-November ranged between 140 and 180 micrograms per cubic meter, several times higher than the World Health Organization's safe standard of 2.5 micrograms per cubic meter. On several occasions, the level reached 700-800 micrograms per cubic meter, indicating extreme pollution.
The report's data shows that there has been no lasting improvement in pollution levels over the past seven years.
The eight-hour standard was exceeded on more than 30 of the 59 days at 22 monitoring stations. Dwarka Sector-8 was the worst affected, with elevated CO levels recorded on 55 days.
This year, stubble burning incidents decreased due to monsoon floods in Punjab and Haryana. In early winter, stubble burning contributed less than 5% on most days and peaked at 22% only on November 12-13. While the reduced stubble burning contributed to a slight decrease in pollution peaks, overall air quality remained in the "very poor" to "severe" category during October-November.
According to Sharanjit Kaur of CSE, the average PM2.5 concentration in early winter this year is 9% lower than last year, but compared to the baseline level of three years, there is no real improvement in the situation. This indicates that pollution has become a dangerous constant.
The report stated that many areas of Delhi have become pollution hotspots. In 2018, 13 hotspots were identified, with North and East Delhi being the most affected. Jahangirpuri had an annual PM2.5 average of 119 micrograms per cubic meter, while Bawana and Wazirpur recorded levels of 113 micrograms.
According to Anumita Roy Chowdhury of the CSE, the dangerous mix of PM2.5, nitrogen dioxide, and carbon monoxide is primarily generated by vehicle emissions and combustion sources. Increased traffic during the hours of 7-10 a.m. and 6-9 p.m. causes a simultaneous surge in these pollutants, further polluting the air.
The CSE has warned that small improvements will no longer be enough to control pollution. The organization has recommended steps such as timely electrification across all sectors, phasing out old vehicles, integrated public transport, last-mile connectivity, promoting pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, imposing parking fees and congestion taxes. Emphasis has also been placed on industries adopting clean fuels and ensuring power plants adhere to stringent emission standards.
The impact of pollution is also evident in hospitals. The number of respiratory patients in the OPDs of major hospitals in Delhi has increased by 33%. Doctors say that symptoms are resurfacing in older asthma patients, and cases of coughing, chest tightness, and eye irritation have increased.
After a brief respite for a day, Delhi's air once again turned toxic. On Monday morning, the city was shrouded in a blanket of light fog and smog. Low visibility caused problems, and most people went out wearing masks.
