Delhi AQI Hits 440, Most Polluted January Day in Two Years
Delhi's air quality index (AQI) reached 440 on Sunday, marking the most polluted January day in two years. This severe level is attributed to stagnant winds and rising emissions, with the AQI surpassing 400 for two consecutive days for the first time since January 2016. Anand Vihar recorded the highest pollution level at 497, while Mundka and Rohini both had an AQI of 491. The Commission for Air Quality Management imposed Stage 4 restrictions, which include a ban on BS-IV trucks and all construction activities. Experts have raised concerns about the ineffectiveness of the Graded Response Action Plan in controlling emissions, particularly from industries and thermal power plants in the National Capital Region. Weather forecasts suggest potential improvement in air quality on Monday.
Published 1 day ago • 19 Jan 2026, 05:36 AM IST