Air Quality Deteriorates Rapidly in Delhi, 18 Areas in Severe Zone

Delhi is once again blanketed in dense smog, with the overall Air Quality Index reaching 387. The city is now close to the 'severe’ range, and pollution-linked health worries are rising. Eighteen locations in the capital have already slipped into the severe bracket, while several parts of the National Capital Region are also facing hazardous air.

The escalation has been steady through the week, according to official readings. On Tuesday, Delhi’s AQI stood at 282, then eased to 259 on Wednesday, both rated 'poor’. Levels climbed again to 307 on Thursday and 349 on Friday, before touching 387 on Saturday, 13 December 2025.

Delhi air quality and NCR pollution levels

Areas around Delhi are reflecting similar or worse trends, with some cities firmly in the severe band. Ghaziabad and Noida each recorded an AQI of 422. Gurugram reported 295, while Faridabad logged 208, keeping both in the 'poor’ category. Experts link the rapid spike in Delhi air quality readings to stubborn winter weather.

Specialists say low wind speeds and high moisture are blocking the normal spread of pollutants. Emissions from vehicles, industry and household sources are therefore staying near the surface. This build-up is sharply visible in locality-wise data for Delhi air quality, where many neighbourhoods have crossed the severe threshold for several hours.

The choking Delhi air quality is also affecting visibility, especially during early morning hours. A layer of smog mixed with shallow fog is covering busy roads and residential pockets. Health agencies have warned vulnerable groups, including children and older people, to stay indoors where possible and avoid heavy outdoor exercise.

Officials have urged all residents across Delhi and the wider NCR to minimise outdoor exposure while severe readings persist. People have been asked to track Delhi air quality updates, use masks if stepping out, and cut personal emissions where possible. Authorities say such steps could reduce immediate health risks while conditions remain hostile.