Delhi woke up to another day of toxic air on Monday, with pollution levels shooting into the ‘Severe’ range in half of the city’s monitoring stations. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recorded Air Quality Index (AQI) numbers between 347 and 455, showing how unsafe the air has become for people living in the capital.

Out of Delhi’s 39 air monitoring centres, 20 recorded AQI above 400, placing them in the worst category. As of 6:50 am, several areas showed very dangerous readings:

  • Anand Vihar – 441

  • Alipur – 412

  • Ashok Vihar – 433

  • Bawana – 437

  • Burari – 432

  • DTU – 443

  • ITO – 410

  • Jahangirpuri – 452

  • Mundka – 440

The situation worsened by 7 am. Some neighbourhoods saw even higher pollution numbers:

  • Rohini – 458

  • Jahangirpuri – 455

  • DTU – 444

  • Anand Vihar – 442

In many parts of the city, the thick morning haze made it hard to see clearly. Popular spots like India Gate saw fewer morning walkers as people avoided the smog.

The pollution problem also hit neighbouring NCR towns. While some places stayed in the “Very Poor” bracket, others entered the “Severe” zone.

NCR AQI readings:

  • Noida – 396 (Very Poor)

  • Greater Noida – 399 (Very Poor)

  • Ghaziabad – 432 (Severe)

  • Gurugram – 291 (Poor)

  • Faridabad – 239 (Poor)

Experts say these levels can harm people’s lungs and heart, especially those who already have breathing problems.

Citizens Protest at India Gate

With the air turning dangerous, many Delhi residents gathered at India Gate on Sunday to protest what they called government inaction. The demonstration was led by the Delhi Coordination Committee for Clean Air.

The protest grew tense after people refused to leave despite police instructions.
The committee said Delhi’s rising pollution is a “serious health risk” and accused authorities of not solving the main causes of the problem. They also criticised what they called “cosmetic measures” like water sprinklers and spraying around AQI stations.

As Delhi continues to record AQI numbers above 400, pressure is increasing on both state and central governments to take strong, long-term steps. Health experts say that breathing such polluted air for many days can be especially harmful for children, older people, and those with asthma or other breathing issues.