delhi aqi

Delhi's AQI changes hourly and is often in the poor to severe range during late autumn and winter. You can check the live reading on CPCB, SAFAR, or IQAir websites. Values above 200 are unhealthy and above 300 are hazardous.

Delhi's pollution comes from vehicle exhaust, construction dust, industrial emissions, and stubble burning in nearby states. Cold weather, low wind, and fog trap pollutants close to the ground. This combination causes sharp spikes in October to January.

AQI is scored 0-500: 0-50 good, 51-100 satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor, and 401-500 severe. PM2.5 and PM10 are the main pollutants measured. Higher numbers mean greater health risk.

Cold air, low wind speed, and temperature inversion prevent pollutants from dispersing in winter. Added smoke from stubble burning and Diwali fireworks worsens smog. Morning fog mixes with pollutants to form dense smog.

Short-term exposure can cause eye irritation, cough, sore throat, and breathing difficulty. Long-term exposure increases risk of asthma, lung disease, heart disease, and reduced lung function in children. Elderly people, children, and those with asthma are most vulnerable.

Outdoor exercise and prolonged outdoor activity should be limited when AQI is above 200. Wear an N95 or N99 mask if you must go out in very poor or severe conditions. Keep windows closed and use an air purifier indoors when possible.

Use official sources like CPCB's Sameer app, SAFAR-India, and Delhi Pollution Control Committee stations. Private platforms like IQAir and AQI.in also provide real-time area-wise data. Check the station nearest to you because levels vary across Delhi.

Authorities implement GRAP restrictions based on AQI levels, including dust controls, vehicle limits, and construction bans. Measures can include odd-even traffic rules, school closures, and work-from-home advisories. Anti-smog guns, water sprinkling, and fines for burning waste are also used.

Schools may shift to online classes or close when AQI reaches severe levels under GRAP Stage III or IV. Decisions are announced by the Delhi government and depend on daily readings. Parents should follow official education department updates.

AQI usually improves with strong winds, rain, or warmer temperatures that disperse pollutants. Reductions in stubble burning and strict emission controls also help. Winter smog typically eases by late February to March.