Delhi-NCR faced another day of alarming air pollution on Monday, 10 November 2025, as a thick layer of smog covered the region early in the morning. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), more than half of the monitoring stations in the national capital recorded Air Quality Index (AQI) levels in the severe category. The worst-hit area was Bawana, where the AQI touched 412, indicating highly hazardous air conditions.
At around 7 a.m., Delhi’s overall AQI was measured at 372, falling into the ‘very poor’ range, as reported by the Air Quality Early Warning System (EWS). Low wind speed, high humidity, and falling night temperatures played a major role in trapping pollutants close to the ground. Experts suggest that stubble burning in neighbouring states also contributed to the sudden spike in pollution levels.
The smog significantly reduced visibility across major roads, affecting traffic movement and morning commuting. Several residents reported eye irritation, breathing discomfort, and headaches due to prolonged exposure to the polluted air. Health officials have advised the public, especially children, senior citizens, pregnant women, and individuals with asthma or heart conditions, to limit outdoor activities.
Environmentalists and researchers warn that continued exposure to such air quality can lead to long-term health complications, including chronic respiratory illnesses. Schools in some regions are monitoring the situation and may issue guidelines or modify outdoor activity schedules for students.
Authorities may consider rolling out emergency measures like restrictions on construction activities, industrial emissions, and vehicle movement if pollution levels remain elevated. The Delhi government’s pollution control emergency framework, under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), may also be invoked more strictly in the coming days.
With winter approaching, meteorologists expect pollution levels to fluctuate but remain largely on the higher side unless significant preventive action is taken.
