Delhi chokes as air quality remains ‘very poor’ for 14th day, AQI rises to 377

By A Staff Reporter

Delhi continued to battle hazardous air conditions on Thursday as the city’s overall Air Quality Index (AQI) touched 377, placing it firmly in the ‘very poor’ category for the 14th consecutive day. The persistent pollution levels are yet another reminder of the NCR’s annual winter air quality crisis, driven by a host of seasonal and anthropogenic factors including stubble burning, low wind speed, vehicular emissions and industrial pollutants.

Environmental agencies reported marginal fluctuations throughout the week, but none significant enough to bring relief. Pollution monitoring dashboards indicate that particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) remained several times above safe limits, heightening respiratory risks especially for children, the elderly and those with chronic lung or heart conditions. Doctors have advised limiting outdoor activity and using protective masks when necessary.