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Delhi AQI Jumps to 187 as pollution worsens

By Drooid · Oct 21, 2026, 4:16 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Delhi AQI Spikes

The Central Pollution Control Board reported Delhi’s AQI climbing from 90 on Friday to 187 on Sunday, entering Poor category.
Transport emissions accounted for about 23% of Delhi’s pollutants, the largest share among sources.
Stubble-burning was detected in six neighboring states, with 19 events earlier this month and 98 on October 19.
Delhi’s government will launch a Winter Action Plan on November 1, including No-PUC, No-Fuel rules and work-from-home mandates.

Summary

Ventilation Index Falls

Air Quality Early Warning System reported a ventilation index below 6,000 sq m/s, limiting pollutant dispersion.
Average wind speeds projected under 10 km/h, further restricting pollutant clearance.
No rainfall was recorded at any of the five weather stations between 8:30 am and 5:30 pm on Tuesday.
Meteorologists forecast clear skies Saturday with temperatures near 33 °C max and 21 °C min, possibly reaching 35 °C by Oct 23.

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Delhi AQI Spikes

The Central Pollution Control Board reported Delhi’s AQI climbing from 90 on Friday to 187 on Sunday, entering Poor category.
Transport emissions accounted for about 23% of Delhi’s pollutants, the largest share among sources.
Stubble-burning was detected in six neighboring states, with 19 events earlier this month and 98 on October 19.
Delhi’s government will launch a Winter Action Plan on November 1, including No-PUC, No-Fuel rules and work-from-home mandates.

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