Delhi’s fire department is grappling with a steady stream of calls related to garbage burning — a problem that is contributing significantly to Delhi’s worsening air pollution.

Other NCR towns to the west, north and northwest of Delhi also recorded substantial contributions

On Sunday, Delhi's air crossed the 'severe plus' category for the first time this winter—with a 24-hour average air quality index of 461—the second-worst AQI reading for December since the system was launched in April 2015.

Among the worst affected areas were Jahangirpuri and Mundka — both recording an AQI of 499, Bawana  at 498 and other regions which neared the 500 mark.

At 4pm, 38 of Delhi’s 39 active stations were “severe,” with only Shadipur in “very poor.” Wazirpur topped 500 – the upper limit of CPCB’s monitoring; Rohini and Ashok Vihar also breached it, while Jahangirpuri, and Mundka hit 499

Wazirpur, Rohini And Ashok Vihar Lead Delhi’s Wall Of Shame

Most Rajghat visits mean barricades and long jams across ITO and key parts of central Delhi.

At the heart of the air pollution crisis in Delhi-NCR is a familiar pattern seen during winters in North India.

All 40 monitoring stations in Delhi show 'red', meaning AQI in the 'severe' category.

raffic jams in Delhi are hardly unusual, but few disruptions frustrate commuters as much as those triggered by foreign dignitary visits to Rajghat.

Delhi’s severe air pollution has once again created difficulties across the country. Due to the heavy smog and very poor visibility, flights and trains have been delayed or diverted, and Maharashtra has faced major disruption. Although the pollution seems limited to Delhi, its impact is nationwide, affecting travellers, daily schedules, and essential movement.

Data from the Decision Support System showed a 2.66% contribution from stubble burning on Saturday.

Data from the Decision Support System showed a 2.66% contribution from stubble burning on Saturday.

Environment minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said on Friday that short-term interventions have already begun at several sites, with medium- and long-term structural upgrades to follow

Manjinder Singh Sirsa said short-term interventions have already begun at several sites, with medium- and long-term structural upgrades to follow

Manjinder Singh Sirsa said short-term interventions have already begun at several sites, with medium- and long-term structural upgrades to follow

The level of pollution in Delhi this time is so dangerous that more than 1 million people are under the grip of severe pollution. The effect of this air is most dangerous for children and the elderly. The air is the most toxic during the morning hours.

Farmers in Punjab are increasingly sending crop stubble to recycling units instead of burning it, aiming to reduce winter air pollution that often affects New Delhi.

Mixed Progress In Delhi Across Categories Amid Dominance Of Traditional Fuel

Between November 1 and 15, the city’s mean AQI stood at 348, an improvement compared to 367 in 2024 and 376 in 2023.