Post Updated: November 9, 2026
Delhi woke up to another day of thick smog on Monday, a day after Diwali. The overall Air Quality Index (AQI) hovered in the “very poor” category around 366, according to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. Yet several monitoring stations crossed the 400 mark and entered the “severe” zone. Residents in north and northeast Delhi faced the worst air.
Here is a clear, up-to-date picture of the highest AQI readings in Delhi today, the areas hit hardest, and practical steps you can take.
Table of Contents
Current Overall AQI and Category in Delhi
As of the morning of November 9, 2026, Delhi’s city-wide average AQI stood near 366. This falls in the “very poor” range (301–400). Air quality in this band is unhealthy for everyone. Sensitive groups — children, elderly people, and those with respiratory or heart conditions — face higher risk.
Several stations recorded levels above 400, pushing those pockets into the “severe” category. Visibility remained low in many parts of the city, and the familiar winter haze continued to hang over the skyline. GRAP Stage III restrictions remain in force across Delhi-NCR to limit further deterioration.
Areas Recording the Highest AQI Today
The worst readings came from the northern and northeastern parts of the capital. According to the latest CPCB and station reports:
- Sonia Vihar / Burari Crossing: around 441–449 (Severe)
- Vivek Vihar: 441 (Severe)
- Jahangirpuri: 439 (Severe)
- Rohini: 435 (Severe)
- Chandni Chowk: 418 (Severe)
- Mundka: 413 (Severe)
- Punjabi Bagh: 408 (Severe)
- ITO: 404–407 (Severe)
Other stations such as Alipur, Pusa, and Narela stayed in the upper “very poor” range. South Delhi and airport areas generally recorded comparatively lower (though still unhealthy) numbers.
These peaks are driven by a mix of post-Diwali residual pollution, local emissions, and unfavourable weather that traps pollutants close to the ground.
Why Delhi’s Air Remains Hazardous After Diwali
Diwali fireworks added a sharp spike on November 8, when some stations briefly touched the mid-400s and overall readings climbed higher. The following factors keep the air toxic even a day later:
- Residual particulate matter from firecrackers
- Seasonal stubble burning contribution from neighbouring states
- Low wind speeds and temperature inversion that prevent dispersion
- Ongoing local sources — vehicles, construction dust, and industry
PM2.5 and PM10 remain the dominant pollutants. When these fine particles stay elevated for days, they penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream.
Health Precautions and Practical Tips for Residents
When AQI crosses 400 in your locality, treat the air as a serious health risk. Simple, effective steps include:
- Limit outdoor activity, especially early morning and late evening
- Use N95 or better masks when you must step out
- Keep windows closed and run air purifiers if available
- Avoid strenuous exercise outdoors
- Stay hydrated and monitor any breathing discomfort
- Check local station readings rather than only the city average
People with asthma, COPD, or heart conditions should consult their doctor and keep medicines handy. Location Approximate AQI Category Sonia Vihar / Burari 441–449 Severe Vivek Vihar 441 Severe Jahangirpuri 439 Severe Rohini 435 Severe Chandni Chowk 418 Severe Mundka 413 Severe Punjabi Bagh 408 Severe ITO 404–407 Severe City Average ~366 Very Poor
Conclusion
The highest AQI readings in Delhi today remain concentrated in the north and northeast, with several stations still in the severe range even as the city average sits in the very poor category. Post-Diwali conditions have kept pollution elevated, and GRAP Stage III measures continue. Accurate, real-time monitoring is essential for both public health decisions and long-term air-quality management. For reliable calibration and precision measurement solutions that support environmental monitoring efforts, visit gmdcalibration.in.
Stay informed, protect yourself and your family, and check official CPCB or local station updates throughout the day, as readings can shift quickly with weather changes.