New Delhi: Delhi-NCR has witnessed the most significant improvement in air quality in the past eight years, excluding the COVID-19 lockdown period. From January to November 2025, the average Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 187, marking a notable decline compared to previous years.
According to official data, the number of severely polluted days has also decreased. Only three days this year saw AQI crossing 400, compared to 11 days in 2024, 12 days in 2023, and 17 days in 2021. Moreover, no day in 2025 recorded AQI above 450.
Decline in Particulate Matter Levels
The average PM2.5 level in Delhi was 85 µg/m³, the lowest since 2018 and comparable to 2020 levels. By comparison, PM2.5 levels were 98 in 2024, 90 in 2023, 95 in 2021, and 103 in 2018. The PM10 average also dropped to 183 µg/m³, down from 205 in 2024, 193 in 2023, and 228 in 2018.
Efforts to Reduce Pollution
Officials from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) stated that pollution control measures are being implemented in coordination with Delhi-NCR authorities, and efforts to further improve air quality will continue. On Saturday, CAQM issued revised guidelines for the region, bringing Stage 4 measures under Stage 3. Under the new norms, state governments can mandate 50% of government, municipal, and private office employees to work from home when pollution reaches higher levels.
Opposition Raises Concerns
However, the data has come under scrutiny from opposition parties. Delhi AAP president Saurabh Bhardwaj accused the Delhi government of manipulating AQI figures. He claimed that BJP-ruled states report misleading AQI numbers, showing levels of 300–400 instead of actual 500–700 to avoid mandatory restrictions.
Despite political debates, the overall trend indicates a marked improvement in air quality, offering relief to millions of residents who have long endured hazardous pollution levels in the capital.
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