Thick Smog Returns to Delhi, Leaving Residents Struggling to Breathe

Delhi's air quality deteriorated sharply on Saturday, December 27, 2025, slipping back into the 'very poor' and 'severe' categories after a brief period of relative improvement earlier in the week. Large sections of the national capital were enveloped in thick smog during the morning hours, leading to significantly reduced visibility, respiratory discomfort, and disruptions for residents and commuters. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data revealed stark variations across the city, with several monitoring stations recording alarming readings that underscored the persistent challenge of winter pollution in the region.

Specific locations highlighted the severity of the situation. In Akshardham and Anand Vihar, the Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 410, firmly placing these areas in the 'severe' category, which poses serious health risks, including aggravated respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. The ITO stretch recorded an AQI of 379, falling under 'very poor,' while Dhaula Kuan stood at 252 in the 'poor' range. The city's overall 24-hour average AQI climbed to 332 by 4 p.m. on Friday, a notable increase from 234 the previous day, reflecting a clear downward trend in air quality.

Meteorological factors played a key role in the pollution spike. The India Meteorological Department attributed the worsening conditions to calm wind speeds and stagnant air associated with an approaching western disturbance. Low wind velocities in the early morning hours restricted the dispersion of pollutants, allowing particulate matter to accumulate close to the ground. Although winds briefly picked up to around 10 kmph from the southwest later in the day, experts warned that a series of upcoming western disturbances could sustain elevated pollution levels over the coming days.

Also Read: Delhi Sees Slight AQI Relief, But Pollution Still Chokes City at 378

In response to the prevailing conditions, the weather department issued a yellow alert for moderate to dense fog across Delhi and adjoining areas. The minimum temperature was expected to hover between 6 and 8 degrees Celsius on Saturday, with a further drop to 5-7 degrees Celsius anticipated on Sunday. Such cold temperatures, combined with high humidity and low wind speeds, create ideal conditions for the formation and persistence of smog, trapping pollutants near the surface and exacerbating health hazards for vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory issues.

The recurring smog episodes serve as a reminder of Delhi's long-standing struggle with seasonal air pollution, driven by a mix of vehicular emissions, stubble burning in neighboring states, industrial activity, construction dust, and unfavorable meteorological patterns. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, with calls for sustained measures such as stricter enforcement of anti-pollution norms, promotion of public transport, and regional cooperation to address transboundary sources. As winter deepens, residents are advised to limit outdoor exposure, use masks, and follow health guidelines during periods of poor air quality.

Also Read: Supreme Court to Hear Delhi-NCR Air Pollution Plea On December 17