Last Updated:December 15, 2025, 07:15 IST

The Delhi-NCR air pollution stands at ‘severe’ category on Monday morning, according to official data.

Delhi’s air pollution poses severe health risks. (Image: ANI)

A thick blanket of smog covered the National Capital on Monday morning, leaving residents gasping for clean air. Visuals from the Barapullah flyover showed hazy roads and poor visibility, with vehicles moving cautiously through the gloom. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in the area stood at 433, placing it firmly in the ‘severe’ category, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

Flights faced minor delays at the Delhi airport on Monday morning as dense smog reduced visibility, prompting IndiGo to issue an advisory for passengers.

#WATCH | A thick layer of smog engulfs the National Capital. Visuals from the Barapullah flyover. AQI here is 433, categorised as ‘severe’ as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) pic.twitter.com/3FX7wR5LQx— ANI (@ANI) December 15, 2025

Air quality hits season’s worst level

Delhi’s air quality worsened sharply on Sunday, December 14, with the 24-hour average AQI touching 461 by 4 pm. This was the highest reading recorded so far this season. The figure marked a further decline from Saturday’s AQI of 431, which was already classified as ‘severe’. The CPCB warned that pollution levels remained dangerously high, although a slight improvement to the ‘very poor’ category was expected later on Monday.

Poor visibility adds to commuter woes

Along with rising pollution levels, visibility across several parts of the city dropped significantly. Morning commuters reported difficulty while driving, especially on flyovers and major roads. Health experts continue to warn that prolonged exposure to such air can worsen respiratory problems, particularly for children, the elderly and those with existing illnesses.

CAQM pulls up DDA over road conditions

Amid the worsening air crisis, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in NCR and adjoining areas criticised the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) for lapses in road maintenance. In a strong observation made on Sunday, the commission pointed out “evident gaps” and “recurring negligence” in keeping roads clean and dust-free. Poorly maintained roads are a major source of dust pollution, especially during winter months.

With cold weather conditions trapping pollutants close to the ground, Delhi may continue to struggle with poor air quality in the coming days. Authorities have urged residents to limit outdoor activities and follow health advisories until pollution levels come down.

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