Archive · 20 Jan 2026
Delhi AQI Severe at 418
Delhi and its nearby cities are experiencing very bad air quality.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) is in the 'severe' category, which means the air is very polluted and can make people sick.
Many areas in Delhi have AQI levels above 450, which is very dangerous.
The bad air is caused by pollution, fog, and still air that doesn't let the pollutants go away.
Authorities have put strict rules to control the pollution, like checking vehicles and stopping construction work.
People are advised to stay inside, wear masks, and take care of children and older adults who are more at risk.
Delhi's overall AQI recorded at 418, falling in the 'severe' category.
Several areas in Delhi reported AQI levels above 450, with the highest being 473 in Ashok Vihar.
Dense fog and smog reduced visibility and disrupted daily life and air travel.
GRAP Stage 4 measures reinvoked to control pollution, including stricter vehicle checks and reduced construction activities.
Authorities advised residents to limit outdoor activities, wear masks, and take special care of vulnerable groups.
- Who
- Residents of Delhi-NCR, including Noida and Ghaziabad
- What
- Severe air pollution with AQI in the 'severe' category
- When
- January 19, 2026
- Where
- Delhi and National Capital Region (NCR)
- Why
- Due to a combination of pollution, fog, and low winds
- Overall AQI
- 418 (Severe)
- Highest AQI recorded
- 473 (Ashok Vihar)
- Lowest AQI recorded
- 339 (IGI Airport Terminal-3)
- Weather conditions
- Dense fog and smog
- GRAP Phase
- 4
- Minimum temperature
- 8°C
- Maximum temperature
- 25°C
- Affected areas
- Delhi-NCR, including Noida and Ghaziabad
Sources
GRAP Stage 4 Vehicle Restrictions In Delhi-NCR - Latest Fines And Rules Explained
Delhi can't breathe, AQI at 'severe' category of 418
Dense smog engulfs Delhi; AQI slips to 'severe' category at 418
Delhi AQI today: Air quality remains severe as pollution levels cross 450 across NCR
Delhi News Live Updates: CAQM reimposes GRAP stage IV curbs as Delhi-NCR chokes; Republic Day rehearsals continue under tight security
Air quality severe in city
Dense Smog Engulfs Delhi as AQI Remains ‘Severe,’ Reaching 455
Delhi AQI: Fog eases, but air pollution remains a concern in NCR
Delhi’s 3-day ‘severe’ AQI streak ends, air quality improves to ‘very poor’
