New Delhi was shrouded in heavy smog on Wednesday as winter pollution
intensified ahead of Diwali. The Central Pollution Control Board reported an AQI
of 379 at 10:00 a.m. local time, near the upper bound of India’s 'very poor'
category. PM2.5 averaged 277 µg/m3, roughly 18 times the WHO 24-hour guideline.
Diwali fireworks, due in a week, typically exacerbate smog. Energy and Clean Air
Research Centre analyst Manoj Kumar said authorities continue to treat Delhi’s
pollution as episodic rather than chronic, with public attention rising mainly
when pollution becomes severe; Delhi has recorded only one 'good' air day so far
in 2026.
