Delhi AQI today: Air pollution readings turns severe after Diwali bursts: Check area-wise levels here

Delhi woke up to a thick blanket of smog on Monday, November 9, a day after Diwali celebrations, as air pollution levels remained dangerously high across several parts of the national capital. The bursting of firecrackers added to the city's existing pollution burden, pushing the Air Quality Index (AQI) above 400 at multiple monitoring stations. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi's average AQI stood at 368 at 7 am on Monday, placing it in the 'Very Poor' category. However, several localities reported readings in the 'Severe' category, raising concerns over the impact of post-Diwali pollution on residents.

The situation was particularly worrying in areas where AQI readings crossed 400. Burari Crossing recorded an AQI of 441, while Vivek Vihar registered 437 and Delhi Technological University (DTU) recorded 434, according to CPCB monitoring data.

Delhi AQI today: Check area-wise pollution levels

While the overall AQI remained in the 'Very Poor' category, pollution levels varied significantly across the city. Several monitoring stations reported readings above 400, indicating severe air pollution. Here are some of the latest reported AQI readings across Delhi on November 9:

Delhi location	AQI	Category
Burari Crossing	441	Severe
Vivek Vihar	437	Severe
DTU	434	Severe
North Campus	433	Severe
Jahangirpuri	433	Severe
Rohini	430	Severe
ITO	406	Severe
Anand Vihar	335	Very Poor
RK Puram	364	Very Poor
Lodhi Road	370	Very Poor

These are reported station readings from different observation times during the morning. AQI levels change throughout the day.

Delhi Air Pollution: Crackers not the only rason behind higher AQI

Firecracker emissions are an important factor behind the post-Diwali deterioration in air quality. However, they are not the only reason Delhi continues to struggle with pollution during November. Vehicle emissions, construction dust, industrial activity and smoke from agricultural fires in neighbouring states contribute to the city's pollution burden. Weather conditions during this period also make the situation worse. Lower temperatures, slower wind speeds and temperature inversion can prevent pollutants from dispersing. As a result, smoke and fine particulate matter remain trapped closer to the ground.

PM2.5 has emerged as a prominent pollutant in several monitoring stations. These fine particles are particularly concerning because they can penetrate deep into the respiratory system.

How can residents protect themselves from air pollution?

With pollution levels remaining high, residents should take precautions, particularly children, older people and individuals with existing respiratory or heart-related conditions. Avoiding strenuous outdoor activities, especially during periods of high pollution, can help reduce exposure. People who need to travel outdoors may consider wearing a well-fitted N95 mask.

Keeping windows closed during periods of heavy pollution and using an air purifier indoors, where available, may also help. Anyone experiencing breathing difficulties, persistent coughing or chest discomfort should seek medical advice.