Delhi air quality hits very poor category during Diwali celebrations
The national capital recorded an average AQI of 376 on Sunday as smog reduced visibility across the city.
Delhi's air quality fell into the very poor category on Sunday, November 8, 2026, with an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 376, according to reports from The Economic Times and The Hindu. A thick layer of smog enveloped the city, reducing visibility during Diwali celebrations. PM2.5 was the predominant pollutant, with firecracker emissions adding to particulate matter levels.
The air quality is forecast to turn severe on Monday, November 9, due to Diwali celebrations, vehicular emissions, and the peak stubble-burning season. On Monday morning, the Sameer application from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) showed an average AQI of 307. In northwestern Delhi, Jahangirpuri recorded the worst AQI, reaching 417, according to Scroll, while The Hindu reported a higher reading of 463 at the same location.
In the surrounding regions, Noida recorded a very poor AQI of 308, while Greater Noida and Ghaziabad were in the poor category. Gurugram recorded an AQI of 225, and Faridabad recorded 118. The Delhi government's Winter Action Plan includes curbs that will remain in force until February 28.
During the festival, Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated with security personnel in Bastar, Chhattisgarh. Vice President C P Radhakrishnan and Prime Minister Modi also called on President Droupadi Murmu at the Rashtrapati Bhavan to exchange greetings. In Srinagar, thousands of lamps illuminated the Clock Tower at Lal Chowk as locals and tourists celebrated.