Delhi Air Pollution 2025: Smog Chokes City as AQI Turns ‘Very Poor’; Chhath Puja and Airport Revamp in Focus

New Delhi, October 26, 2025 — The national capital once again finds itself battling toxic air as Delhi Air Pollution level spiked sharply over the weekend. On Sunday morning, the Air Quality Index (AQI) across several parts of the city climbed into the “Very Poor” category, registering an average score of 322, while certain hotspots like Anand Vihar, Jahangirpuri, and Wazirpur crossed the “Severe” threshold of 430.

A thick smog blanket covered the city early in the morning, significantly reducing visibility and making breathing difficult for residents. The Delhi Air Pollution decline has been attributed to a combination of factors including stubble burning in neighboring states, vehicle emissions, and stagnant wind conditions that trap pollutants near the surface.

Experts from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) warn that if conditions persist, the AQI could worsen further in the coming week. The Delhi government has already enforced Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), restricting construction activities, advising work-from-home for government offices, and increasing road sprinkling operations.

Medical professionals urge residents to avoid prolonged outdoor exposure and to wear N95 masks when outside. Schools have also been advised to restrict outdoor activities for children. The smog has particularly impacted people with asthma and other respiratory issues, leading to a surge in emergency cases across hospitals.

While the Delhi Air Pollution today remained warm with clear skies, the visibility level stayed low due to suspended pollutants. The maximum temperature was around 32 °C, while the minimum was 19 °C. The dry, calm weather prevented pollutant dispersion, causing haze throughout the day. Commuters reported slower traffic movement in the early hours as vehicle headlights struggled to cut through the dense smog.

According to meteorologists, wind speed is expected to improve slightly in the next 48 hours, which may bring temporary relief. However, the overall Delhi pollution level is likely to remain in the “Very Poor” category until significant weather change occurs.

In infrastructure news, Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI Airport) reopened its revamped Terminal 2 (T2) on Sunday, marking a major milestone in Delhi’s aviation upgrades. The refurbished terminal features modern check-in facilities, energy-efficient systems, and enhanced passenger lounges. The move aims to ease congestion at Terminal 1.

IndiGo Airlines resumed operations at T2, while Air India Express shifted all its domestic flights to Terminal 1. Passengers are advised to check flight terminal details in advance to avoid confusion. The airport authorities said that signage and staff support have been deployed to assist travelers during the transition.

Despite Delhi Air Pollution challenges, the city is gearing up for Chhath Puja 2025, one of North India’s most vibrant festivals. The Delhi government has declared a public holiday for schools on the day of the festival and arranged over 1,300 ghats along the Yamuna River and other water bodies for devotees to perform rituals.

Municipal agencies have enhanced lighting, sanitation, and crowd-management systems. Disaster-response teams and divers will be stationed at major ghats like ITO, Kalindi Kunj, and Wazirabad to ensure safety during the four-day festival that celebrates the Sun God and nature’s bounty.

In another development, the Delhi government announced it will unveil the city’s first-ever official logo on November 1, 2025. Officials say the logo will symbolize the capital’s historical heritage, cultural unity, and modern identity. The new emblem is expected to feature landmarks such as the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and the Yamuna River.

Meanwhile, the Delhi Police have intensified security ahead of the festive season. A major breakthrough came when a member of the notorious “choke-hold gang” was arrested near Badarpur Flyover after an encounter. A pistol and cartridges were recovered from his possession, according to officials.

As Delhi news today highlights both celebration and concern, the city stands at a crossroads between development and environmental crisis. Citizens are being urged to embrace sustainable habits—carpooling, using public transport, and avoiding waste burning—to fight Delhi Air Pollution 2025.

While the revamped IGI Airport and upcoming Chhath Puja festivities showcase Delhi’s resilience, the rising smog serves as a reminder that cleaner air must remain the capital’s top priority for the days ahead.