Delhi recorded dangerously high pollution levels on December 30, 2025, with the Air Quality Index consistently registering in the severe to hazardous range across numerous monitoring stations. Values surpassed 400 in several locations, while isolated areas reported peaks exceeding 500, driven by stagnant meteorological conditions that trapped vehicular emissions, industrial pollutants, construction dust, and biomass burning residues. Health experts issued urgent advisories, particularly for children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, recommending strict avoidance of outdoor exposure.

A blanket of dense to very dense fog shrouded the national capital and adjoining National Capital Region throughout the day, with visibility plummeting to 50-100 meters during peak morning hours and persisting into the afternoon in certain pockets. The India Meteorological Department maintained an orange alert, forecasting continuation of these conditions due to low wind speeds and high moisture content, further aggravating the entrapment of pollutants and creating a persistent smog layer over the city.

Aviation operations at Indira Gandhi International Airport suffered extensive disruptions, resulting in the cancellation of over 130 domestic and international flights, significant delays for hundreds more, and diversions to alternate airports. Low-visibility procedures under CAT III protocols limited runway capacity, while airlines repeatedly urged passengers to monitor updates and allow extra time for travel amid the unpredictable weather fluctuations.

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Railway networks experienced widespread delays, with Northern Railways reporting more than 100 trains running late by several hours across routes connecting to Delhi. Fog-induced speed restrictions on tracks compounded operational challenges, affecting commuter schedules and long-distance travel plans during the busy year-end period.

Environmental authorities reinforced Stage IV measures under the Graded Response Action Plan, including bans on construction activities and restrictions on certain vehicle categories, while meteorological forecasts suggested only marginal improvement in the near term, with possible light rainfall around New Year's Eve offering temporary relief from the ongoing air quality and visibility crisis.

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