Slight Breather, But Delhi Still Chokes: Air Quality Remains ‘Very Poor’ with AQI at 345

As of 8 a.m. on November 10, 2025, the city’s overall Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 345, a slight dip from 391 recorded on Sunday, offering only marginal relief to citizens struggling with polluted air.

Pollution Hotspots Continue to Suffocate

Despite the overall decline in AQI, several parts of the city remained engulfed in smog. Data from CPCB showed the following readings across key areas:

·         Anand Vihar: 379

·         Bawana: 412

·         Burari Crossing: 389

·         Ashok Vihar: 367

·         Dwarka Sector-8: 356

·         Chandni Chowk: 360

·         ITO: 367

·         Alipur: 360

Neighbouring cities like Noida (AQI 362) and Gurugram (AQI 328) also continued to record air quality in the ‘very poor’ range.

Experts Warn: Relief Short-Lived

Environmental experts caution that the dip in AQI may not sustain for long. “The improvement is temporary and mainly due to wind activity. With Diwali festivities approaching, pollution levels are likely to surge again if fireworks are not curbed,” said an official from the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC).

The Delhi government has reactivated anti-smog guns, water sprinklers, and vehicle checks, while construction bans under GRAP Stage IV remain in force.

Health Advisory for Citizens

Doctors have urged residents to limit outdoor activity, especially early in the morning and late at night, when pollution levels peak. People with respiratory illnesses, children, and the elderly are advised to wear N95 masks and use air purifiers indoors.

“Even a short exposure to polluted air can cause coughing, eye irritation, or breathing issues. Those with asthma or chronic bronchitis must take extra precautions,” said Dr. Ritu Verma, a pulmonologist at AIIMS.

Delhi’s Battle for Breath Continues

While authorities continue to enforce pollution control measures, environmental activists say a long-term solution lies in cleaner transport, crop residue management, and industrial regulation.

With the AQI still hovering near the danger mark, Delhiites can only hope for stronger winds — and stronger policies — to clear the smog.