Delhi residents woke up to a double whammy on Monday as the city recorded its coldest morning of the season while battling dangerously poor air quality. The capital's pollution levels remained firmly in the 'very poor' category, creating serious health concerns for millions.
Worsening Air Quality Conditions
According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board's Sameer application, five monitoring stations reported air quality in the 'severe' category, indicating extremely hazardous conditions. The situation appeared even more grim when considering that 29 monitoring stations recorded 'very poor' air quality levels with readings consistently falling between 300 and 400 on the Air Quality Index.
Temperature Plunge Adds to Woes
The deteriorating air conditions coincided with the season's lowest temperature recorded in Delhi. The cold weather typically worsens pollution as lower temperatures cause pollutants to hang closer to the ground, creating a thick layer of smog that blankets the city during early morning hours.
Health Implications and Monitoring
Medical experts have expressed serious concerns about the combined impact of cold weather and poor air quality. The 'very poor' AQI category between 301-400 can trigger respiratory illness even in healthy people and seriously affect those with existing diseases. The 'severe' category, recorded at five stations, represents AQI values above 400, which can affect healthy people and seriously impact those with existing health conditions.
The CPCB data, recorded on November 17, 2025, highlights the persistent challenge Delhi faces every winter. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as residents brace for what appears to be another difficult pollution season ahead.
