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Weather
Delhi records first ‘poor’ AQI of season at 227
✍️ Hindustan Times
🗓 21 Oct 2026, 09:36 AM
👁 12
The capital’s air quality index rose to 227, marking the first ‘poor’ reading of the season.
Delhi woke up to an air quality index (AQI) of 227, the first reading classified as “poor” for the current season, according to the latest data released by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee. The measurement was recorded early morning, indicating a sharp deterioration in ambient air conditions compared with the preceding days, which had remained in the “moderate” range.
An AQI of 227 places the city well above the threshold for “poor” air, a level at which sensitive groups such as children, the elderly and those with respiratory ailments are advised to limit outdoor activities. The National Air Quality Index categorises 201‑300 as “poor”, signalling a heightened health risk for the general public.
The Delhi government has issued health advisories urging residents to wear masks, keep windows closed, and avoid strenuous outdoor exercise until the air quality improves. Authorities are also monitoring emissions from traffic and industrial sources, and have announced plans to intensify dust‑control measures in the coming days.
Experts note that seasonal factors, including lower wind speeds and cooler temperatures, often exacerbate pollutant accumulation, making early‑season spikes common. Continuous monitoring will determine whether the AQI stabilises or worsens as the winter months progress.
An AQI of 227 places the city well above the threshold for “poor” air, a level at which sensitive groups such as children, the elderly and those with respiratory ailments are advised to limit outdoor activities. The National Air Quality Index categorises 201‑300 as “poor”, signalling a heightened health risk for the general public.
The Delhi government has issued health advisories urging residents to wear masks, keep windows closed, and avoid strenuous outdoor exercise until the air quality improves. Authorities are also monitoring emissions from traffic and industrial sources, and have announced plans to intensify dust‑control measures in the coming days.
Experts note that seasonal factors, including lower wind speeds and cooler temperatures, often exacerbate pollutant accumulation, making early‑season spikes common. Continuous monitoring will determine whether the AQI stabilises or worsens as the winter months progress.