Air Quality Improvement Compared to Previous Years

Delhi’s air quality has shown some improvement in October 2026, despite remaining significantly polluted. The average Air Quality Index (AQI) for the city between October 1 and 29 was recorded at 191.5, which is approximately 15 per cent lower than the same period in 2025 and about 19 per cent lower than in October 2024, according to data from AQI.in. This reduction indicates a noticeable change, although it does not warrant any celebration.

During the first 29 days of the month, Delhi experienced 16 days classified as having ‘Poor’ air quality and 13 days in the ‘Unhealthy’ category. Notably, there were no days that fell into the ‘Good’ or ‘Moderate’ classifications. The disparity in categorisation between AQI.in and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is also significant, with AQI.in labelling readings of 201-300 as ‘unhealthy’ and 301-400 as ‘severe’, while the CPCB uses ‘Poor’ and ‘Very Poor’ for the same ranges.

Comparison of AQI Data Over Three Years

A closer examination of the AQI data reveals a clearer picture of the air quality trends over the past three years. The average AQI for the first 29 days of October was 236.8 in 2024 and 226.1 in 2025, contrasting sharply with the 191.5 recorded in 2026. The overall monthly averages for 2024 and 2025 were even higher, at 242.5 and 231.4, respectively.

Further analysis indicates a significant decline in the number of days when the AQI exceeded 300. In October 2024, there were 12 such days, and eight in October 2025. However, in October 2026, there were no days that crossed this threshold, with the highest reading being 283 on October 21. Despite this, the absence of extreme pollution levels does not imply consistently better air quality, as the city still experienced 13 days within the 201-300 range, indicating ongoing unhealthy conditions.

The timing of Diwali also plays a crucial role in understanding the air quality data. In 2024, Diwali was celebrated on October 31, and in 2025, it fell on October 20. This year, the festival is set for November 8, meaning that the October 2026 figures do not account for the pollution typically generated by firecrackers during the festival, which can linger for days afterward.

Factors Influencing Air Quality in October 2026

Weather conditions have also contributed to the improved air quality this October. Unlike previous years, sporadic rainfall has occurred, helping to clear the air. The most recent spell of rain was attributed to Cyclone Arnab and a western disturbance, which significantly reduced the AQI levels. As winter approaches, however, weaker winds and stable atmospheric conditions may hinder the dispersal of pollutants, leading to potential accumulation.

Additionally, a decline in stubble burning has likely played a role in maintaining lower AQI levels this October compared to the previous two years. Data from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) indicated a 31.3 per cent reduction in farm-fire incidents across six states between September 15 and October 27 compared to the previous year. The impact of stubble burning on Delhi’s air quality varies according to weather conditions and the number of active fires.

Although the lower average AQI for October 2026 marks an improvement over the previous two years, it is essential to consider the broader context. The absence of any ‘Good’ or ‘Moderate’ air quality days throughout the month indicates that Delhi’s pollution challenges remain significant and unresolved.

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