Delhi air pollution hits hazardous levels, AQI crosses 400; NCR breathing toxic air

Delhi’s air quality has deteriorated to alarming levels, with AQI crossing 400 in several areas, including Ghazipur. The toxic air has created a thick smog, affecting visibility and health across the capital and NCR. PM2.5 and PM10 remain the major pollutants.

Post Published By: Sona Saini
Updated : 24 November 2025, 9:43 AM IST
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New Delhi: Air pollution remains serious in the capital Delhi. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the Ghazipur area was recorded at 441, which falls in the 'severe' category. This has led to dense smog covering many parts of the capital, reducing visibility and seriously impacting public health.

Some relief in Faridabad, but air quality remains poor

The situation in Faridabad is not as severe as in Delhi, but the air quality remains polluted. In Ballabhgarh, where insufficient data is available, the AQI in the NIT area was recorded at 266 ('severe'), Sector 11 at 245 ('poor'), and Sector 30 at 205 ('moderate to poor'). PM2.5 and PM10 are the main pollutants. Experts recommend limiting outdoor time, wearing masks, and taking care of your health.

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Severe Air Pollution Levels and Health Impacts

An AQI between 401 and 500 is considered 'severe'. Pollution levels at this level can cause difficulty breathing, eye irritation, sore throat, and other respiratory problems. This can be fatal, especially for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions. Smog is also expected to impact road and air traffic.

AQI Status in Delhi-NCR

The air quality in the capital reached the severe level on Sunday. The morning began with haze and light fog. The AQI was recorded at 391, which falls in the very poor category. This is an increase of 21 points compared to Saturday. Ghaziabad's air quality was the most polluted in the NCR (AQI 437), while Faridabad's air quality was the cleanest (AQI 237).

Key areas with AQI records:

Wazirpur – 459

Vivek Vihar – 457

Rohini – 453

Jahangirpuri – 448

Bawana – 443

Anand Vihar – 438

Ashok Vihar – 433

Narela – 424

Mundka – 422

Sonia Vihar – 422

Punjabi Bagh – 421

Major pollution sources

According to the CPCB and Delhi Air Quality Management System:

Vehicular pollution: 18.45%

Stubble burning: 2.47%

Construction activities: 2.72%

Residential areas: 4.63%

At 3 pm, PM10 levels were recorded at 373.3 micrograms/m³ and PM2.5 levels were recorded at 215.8 micrograms/m³. Experts say that the air may remain in the very poor category till Tuesday.

Delhi-NCR air pollution crisis deepens, AQI again above 400

Location : 
  • New Delhi

Published : 
  • 24 November 2025, 9:43 AM IST

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