Diwali 2026: Delhi’s AQI Reaches 384, 11 Monitoring Stations Record Severe Pollution

Delhi and its neighbouring areas experienced unhealthy air conditions on Diwali morning, with the National Capital’s overall Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 384, placing it in the ‘very poor’ category.

Data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) showed that pollution levels were particularly high at several locations, with 11 out of 23 monitoring stations recording readings above 400, falling under the ‘severe’ category.

Punjabi Bagh reported the worst air quality with an AQI of 450. RK Puram followed at 449, while IIT Delhi recorded 446 and Dwarka registered 444. CRRI Mathura Road and Siri Fort reported readings of 425 and 423, respectively.

The 06:00 AM assessment showed that the remaining 12 monitoring stations had elevated pollution levels, with AQI readings between 301 and 400, indicating ‘very poor’ air quality.

Chandni Chowk and North Campus of Delhi University both recorded 423, while Pusa registered 415. Burari Crossing and NSUT Jaffarpur reported readings of 411 and 409, respectively.

Other locations witnessed high pollution levels. Narela recorded 399, ITO 396 and Mandir Marg 393. Uttam Nagar registered 373, Burari 370, while Talkatora Garden and Aya Nagar both reported 369.

Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 328, remaining in the ‘very poor’ category.

Elsewhere, Vasundhara Enclave registered 356, while Tikri Kalan and Badarpur both recorded 349.

Karala reported 337, followed by Lodhi Road at 333, according to CPCB’s morning data.

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