New Delhi: Residents of Delhi and surrounding regions woke up to dense smog on Saturday, as air pollution levels across the national capital worsened.
Data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) showed that the city’s overall Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 390 at 8 am, placing it in the ‘very poor’ category.
While the average AQI remained just below the severe threshold, several areas across Delhi recorded pollution levels well within the ‘severe’ range. These included Anand Vihar and Ghazipur, both registering an AQI of 435, Jahangirpuri at 442, Rohini at 436, Chandni Chowk at 419, Burari Crossing at 415 and RK Puram at 404. Such readings indicate hazardous air conditions that can seriously affect public health.
A combination of smog and shallow fog further worsened conditions in the early hours, reducing visibility in multiple parts of the city.
#WATCH | Delhi | Visuals around Ghazipur area this morning as a layer of toxic smog blankets the city.
AQI (Air Quality Index) around the area is 435, categorised as ‘Severe’, as claimed by CPCB (Central Pollution Control Board). pic.twitter.com/2x1IUbI8v3
— ANI (@ANI) December 13, 2025
According to CPCB classifications, an AQI between 401 and 500 falls under the ‘severe’ category, while readings between 301 and 400 are considered ‘very poor’. Each category reflects rising pollution levels and increasing health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly and those with respiratory conditions.
Experts warn that prolonged exposure to ‘very poor’ air quality can trigger breathing difficulties and respiratory illnesses even among healthy individuals. Delhi typically experiences a sharp rise in pollution during the winter months due to factors such as low wind speed, stubble burning, vehicular emissions and temperature inversion.
Meanwhile, the Indira Gandhi International Airport issued an advisory due to low visibility conditions. In a post on X, Delhi Airport said that while low visibility procedures were in place, flight operations were normal as of Saturday morning. Passengers were advised to stay in touch with their respective airlines for the latest updates.
Delhi had witnessed similar conditions on Friday as well, when the AQI stood at 386. Areas like Ghazipur and Anand Vihar remained shrouded in thick haze, with visibility dropping significantly.
