Source HT
New Delhi | Wednesday, December 17, 2025 — The national capital continues to battle a toxic haze as the Air Quality Index (AQI) remained firmly in the ‘Very Poor’ category today. While there has been a marginal improvement from the ‘severe’ levels seen earlier this week, a thick blanket of smog continues to impact health and visibility across the city.
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s overall AQI was recorded at 328 at 9:00 AM. Despite the slight dip in numbers, 30 out of 40 monitoring stations in the city reported air quality in the ‘Very Poor’ range, with several areas nearing the ‘Severe’ threshold.
Area-Wise AQI Breakdown
The pollution levels varied significantly across the city, with industrial and outer Delhi areas bearing the brunt of the toxic air.
Monitoring Station AQI Level Category
Bawana 378 Very Poor
Mundka 370 Very Poor
Pusa 365 Very Poor
Rohini 364 Very Poor
Jahangirpuri 361 Very Poor
ITO 360 Very Poor
Anand Vihar 341 Very Poor
RK Puram 342 Very Poor
Punjabi Bagh 339 Very Poor
Lodhi Road 289 Poor
IGI Airport (T3) 263 Poor
Dilshad Garden 247 Poor
Impact on Transport and Health
The persistent smog has led to significant disruptions. Visibility dropped to nearly 700–800 meters at Safdarjung and Palam airports early this morning, leading to the cancellation of approximately 10 flights and delays for several others.
Health experts have warned that breathing Delhi’s current air is equivalent to smoking multiple cigarettes a day. Residents are reporting increased instances of respiratory distress, burning eyes, and persistent coughs.
Government Action and Restrictions
In response to the crisis, the Delhi government has intensified enforcement of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage-IV. Key measures include:
Fuel Restrictions: Starting tomorrow, vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate will be denied fuel at petrol pumps.
Vehicle Bans: Only BS-VI compliant vehicles are permitted to operate; older diesel and petrol vehicles face strict entry bans.
Construction Halt: All non-essential construction and demolition activities remain suspended across the NCR.
Weather Outlook
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast moderate fog for the next 48 hours. While higher wind speeds on Tuesday provided a temporary “cleansing” effect, experts suggest that low temperatures (minimum around 10°C) and dipping ventilation indices will likely keep the AQI in the ‘Very Poor’ category for the remainder of the week.
