Delhi chokes on air ahead of Diwali, AQI reaches dangerous levels in many areas

Delhi AQI Level: Delhi's air has turned toxic this festival of lights. Delhi's air quality has already reached the very poor category on Diwali, October 20, 2025. 

Burning firecrackers and slow winds at night are expected to further worsen pollution, making Delhi's air unfit for breathing.

The air quality is very poor in many areas

Although strict regulations have been enacted to curb pollution, the air quality in many areas remains extremely poor. The Air Quality Index is at severe levels in many places. 

Areas like India Gate, Kartavya Path, Red Fort, and Connaught Place also recorded extremely poor air quality. The AQI in approximately nine areas of the capital is between 300 and 400, indicating severe pollution. 

According to the latest data at 3 am, the Anand Vihar area in East Delhi crossed the 400 mark and entered the severe category, with an AQI of 413. The air quality in RK Puram was recorded at 365. Pollution in Wazirpur and Vivek Vihar also reached very poor levels.

Delhi's air turns toxic

The air in western and central Delhi also remains toxic. AQI of 337 has been recorded in Dwarka and 342 in Rohini. AQI of 336 has also been recorded at ITO, which is considered the epicenter of pollution. 

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has appealed to the people to use only green crackers on Diwali, so that the capital can be saved from pollution. 

She advised the people to celebrate Diwali in the traditional way by lighting diyas, making rangoli and distributing sweets. The CM said that Diwali is a festival of lights, peace and harmony, celebrate it together in a peaceful manner.