Delhi air quality stays 'very poor' amid cold wave and persistent fog

Unfavourable winter conditions and weak winds prevented dispersion of pollutants, keeping Delhi's air quality in the 'very poor' category

Delhi’s air quality remained in the 'very poor' category on January 14, with pollution levels staying elevated across most monitoring stations, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The overall air quality index (AQI) hovered above 300, reflecting continued high concentrations of fine particulate matter amid unfavourable winter conditions.

 

The Anand Vihar monitoring station recorded an AQI of 357, placing it in the very poor category. While no area recorded AQI levels in the severe range, pollution levels remained close to the 400 mark at several locations, including Dwarka Sector-8, Chandni Chowk and other densely populated parts of the city.

 

#WATCH | Visuals from India Gate in New Delhi. AQI in the area is '378' in the 'Very Poor' category as claimed by CPCB. pic.twitter.com/RzJDupTBDN

— ANI (@ANI) January 14, 2026

Under the AQI classification, values between 301 and 400 fall in the 'very poor' category, which can cause breathing discomfort, particularly for children, the elderly and those with respiratory ailments.

Weather conditions limiting dispersion

Meteorological factors continue to play a key role in keeping pollution levels elevated. Low temperatures, calm winds and wintertime inversion have restricted the vertical movement of air, trapping pollutants near the surface. Early-morning mist and haze have further added to reduced dispersion, especially during night and dawn hours.

 

Despite relatively clearer conditions during the day, the lack of strong winds has meant there is little improvement in air quality, even as emissions from traffic and other sources continue.

NCR mirrors Delhi’s pollution trend

The National Capital Region (NCR) also reported similar conditions, with air quality largely remaining in the poor to very poor range. Authorities have continued to advise residents to avoid prolonged outdoor activity, particularly during early morning and late evening hours.

Cold wave continues in Delhi

On Tuesday, Delhi recorded a very low minimum temperature of 2.9 degrees Celsius, among the lowest this winter. On Wednesday, the lowest temperature settled at 3.8 degrees Celsius, according to the India Meteorological Department.

 

The maximum temperature is expected to hover between 21 degrees Celsius and 23 degrees Celsius. The forecast indicates a mainly clear sky, with mist and haze likely during the night, conditions that may continue to affect both visibility and air quality in the coming days.