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15 Jan 2026·Source: The Hindu
3 min
Environment & EcologyEnvironment & EcologyNEWS

Delhi's Air Quality Remains 'Very Poor' Amid Cold Wave Conditions

Delhi's air quality remains 'very poor' with AQI at 353, cold wave persists.

Delhi's Air Quality Remains 'Very Poor' Amid Cold Wave Conditions

Photo by Ahmer Kalam

The overall air quality of Delhi remained in the ‘very poor’ category, with the 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) at 353 at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, marginally lower than 360 the previous day, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). By 11 p.m., the overall AQI had deteriorated to 364, with several stations recording ‘severe’ levels. Parts of the city also experienced cold wave conditions for the fourth day, with the minimum temperature settling at 3.8 degrees Celsius, 3.6 notches below normal, as per the IMD.

Key Facts

1.

Delhi AQI: 353 (Very Poor)

2.

Minimum temperature: 3.8°C

UPSC Exam Angles

1.

GS Paper III: Environment and Ecology, Pollution

2.

Link to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

3.

Potential questions on air quality indices, pollution control mechanisms

Visual Insights

Delhi Air Quality - January 2026

Map showing air quality in Delhi and surrounding regions during the cold wave in January 2026. Markers indicate AQI levels at different locations.

Loading interactive map...

📍Delhi📍Gurugram📍Noida📍Ghaziabad
More Information

Background

The issue of air pollution in Delhi is not a recent phenomenon but has been gradually worsening over the decades. Its roots can be traced back to the rapid industrialization and urbanization that began in the latter half of the 20th century. The Green Revolution in the 1960s and 70s, while boosting agricultural production, also led to increased stubble burning in neighboring states, contributing significantly to winter pollution.

The exponential growth in vehicular traffic, coupled with lax emission norms, further exacerbated the problem. Early attempts to address air pollution included the introduction of CNG for public transport in the late 1990s and early 2000s, but these measures proved insufficient to counter the rising pollution levels. The establishment of bodies like the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) also marked early efforts to monitor and regulate air quality.

Latest Developments

In recent years, there has been a renewed focus on tackling Delhi's air pollution crisis. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in the National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas was established in 2020 to coordinate efforts between states. The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is implemented annually during the winter months, imposing restrictions based on air quality levels.

The introduction of the Bharat Stage VI emission norms in 2020 was a significant step towards reducing vehicular emissions. Furthermore, there's been increased emphasis on promoting electric vehicles and improving public transportation. The long-term outlook involves transitioning to cleaner energy sources, stricter enforcement of pollution control measures, and greater public awareness.

However, challenges remain in effectively addressing stubble burning and managing construction dust, which continue to be major contributors to air pollution.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the Air Quality Index (AQI): 1. The AQI is a tool for effective communication of air quality status to people in easily understandable terms. 2. The AQI considers eight major pollutants for calculation. 3. An AQI value of 350 indicates 'Severe' air quality. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 only
  • B.1 and 2 only
  • C.2 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: B

Statement 1 is correct as AQI simplifies air quality information. Statement 2 is correct as AQI considers eight pollutants (PM2.5, PM10, Nitrogen Dioxide, Ozone, Sulfur Dioxide, Carbon Monoxide, Lead, and Ammonia). Statement 3 is incorrect as an AQI of 350 falls under the 'Very Poor' category, not 'Severe'.

2. With reference to the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in the National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas, consider the following statements: 1. It was constituted as a statutory body in 2020. 2. It has the power to impose environmental compensation on industries causing pollution. 3. The Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change is the ex-officio Chairperson of the Commission. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: A

Statements 1 and 2 are correct. The CAQM was indeed constituted as a statutory body in 2020 and has the power to impose environmental compensation. Statement 3 is incorrect as the Chairperson is not the Union Minister but is appointed by the central government.

3. Which of the following factors contribute significantly to cold wave conditions in Delhi during winter? 1. Western Disturbances 2. Clear Skies 3. Snowfall in Himalayan Region Select the correct answer using the code given below:

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: D

All three factors contribute to cold wave conditions. Western disturbances bring cold air, clear skies allow for radiative cooling, and snowfall in the Himalayas results in cold air advection towards the plains.

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