Delhi Air Quality Very Poor: Fog Disrupts Air Travel
Delhi Air Quality Remains Hazardous Amid Cold Wave
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Delhi residents continue to breathe hazardous air as a persistent cold wave and dense fog trap pollutants over the city. Monitoring stations across the capital report consistently high pollution levels, with Anand Vihar registering a especially concerning air Quality Index (AQI) of 339 as of January 11, 2026.
Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) Data
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) provides real-time air quality data for Indian cities. As of January 11,2026,several stations in Delhi reported AQI levels categorized as ‘very poor’ or ‘severe’.
An AQI of 339,like that recorded at Anand Vihar,indicates that prolonged exposure can cause respiratory problems and is considered harmful for all.
Example: On January 11, 2026, the CPCB reported the following AQI levels in Delhi:
- Anand Vihar: 339 (‘Very Poor’)
- Dwarka Sector 8: 312 (‘Very Poor’)
- Punjabi Bagh: 305 (‘Very Poor’)
- ITO: 321 (‘Very Poor’)
Factors Contributing to Poor Air Quality
Delhi’s poor air quality is a complex issue resulting from a combination of factors. the current cold wave and dense fog exacerbate the problem by trapping pollutants near the ground,reducing their dispersion.
Other contributing factors include vehicle emissions, industrial activity, construction dust, and the burning of crop residue in neighboring states. The Ministry of Habitat, Forest and Climate Change outlines national policies aimed at mitigating these sources.
Detail: The winter months in Delhi typically see a spike in pollution due to meteorological conditions. Lower temperatures and calmer winds prevent pollutants from dispersing effectively, leading to higher concentrations in the air. The practice of burning crop residue after the harvest season in states like Punjab and Haryana also contributes considerably to the problem, with smoke traveling to Delhi.
Government Measures and Regulations
The Delhi government has implemented several measures to combat air pollution,including restrictions on vehicle usage based on odd-even registration numbers,a ban on construction activities during periods of high pollution,and efforts to promote public transportation. These measures are detailed in notifications issued by the Delhi Environment Department.
Evidence: In November 2023, the Delhi government implemented the odd-even vehicle restriction scheme in response to severely deteriorated air quality. This scheme, which restricts vehicles with odd and even registration numbers from plying on the roads on alternate days, aimed to reduce vehicular emissions.Times of India Report on Odd-Even Scheme
Health Impacts
Exposure to high levels of air pollution can have serious health consequences, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare provides guidelines on protecting public health during periods of high pollution.
Example: Studies by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) have linked long-term exposure to air pollution to an increased risk of respiratory infections, heart disease, and lung cancer.