Delhi Air Alert: AQI Remains ‘Poor’ as Shallow Fog Engulfs City — 5 Key Health Tips
Delhi air quality remains ‘poor’ as shallow fog reduces visibility across the city. Know 5 key health tips to stay safe amid rising pollution levels
Delhi’s air quality remained in the ‘poor‘ category during the morning hours on Tuesday (January 6, 2026), with the average Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 293, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board’s Sameer app.
Station-wise data showed that Chandni Chowk recorded the worst air quality at 352 in the ‘very poor’ category. While 20 stations logged ‘very poor’ air quality, 15 stations were in the ‘poor’ category and two stations recorded ‘moderate’ air quality.
According to the CPCB classification, an AQI between 0 and 50 is considered ‘good’, 51 to 100 ‘satisfactory’, 101 to 200 ‘moderate’, 201 to 300 ‘poor’, 301 to 400 ‘very poor’ and 401 to 500 ‘severe’.
On Monday (January 5, 2026), the city’s 24-hour average AQI stood at 244 in the ‘poor’ category.
The Air Quality Early Warning System indicated that the Delhi’s air is expected to remain in the poor to very poor range over the next six days.
On the weather front, shallow fog was observed in parts of the city as the minimum temperature was recorded at 7.6 degrees Celsius, 0.7 notches above the seasonal average during the morning hours.
The maximum temperature in the national capital is expected to settle around 18 degrees Celsius.
Relative humidity levels were observed at 100% in parts of the city during the morning hours, the India Meteorological Department said.
Station-wise data showed that Safdarjung, Lodhi Road, Ridge and Ayanagar recorded a minimum temperature of 7.6 degrees Celsius, while Palam logged a slightly lower minimum temperature of 6.5 degrees Celsius.
Delhi continues to grapple with deteriorating air quality as the Air Quality Index (AQI) remains in the ‘poor’ category, posing significant health risks for residents. Adding to the city’s environmental challenges, shallow fog was observed early Wednesday morning, reducing visibility in several parts of the national capital and complicating traffic and commuting conditions.
According to the latest data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), the AQI across Delhi hovered in the ‘poor’ range, between 201 and 300. This level of air pollution can aggravate respiratory ailments, eye irritation, and cardiovascular conditions, particularly among children, elderly residents, and individuals with pre-existing health issues.
Experts note that Delhi’s air quality tends to worsen during the winter months due to a combination of factors, including low temperatures, stagnant winds, crop residue burning in neighboring states, and vehicular emissions. With the shallow fog settling over the city, these pollutants remain trapped near ground level, further increasing exposure risks for residents.
Early morning commuters reported that visibility dropped to 3–4 kilometers in several areas due to fog, leading to slower traffic movement on main roads and highways. The Western and Northern districts of Delhi, including areas along the Western Express Highway (WEH) and Ring Road, were particularly affected.
Authorities have issued advisories urging drivers to exercise caution and switch to headlights and fog lamps while traveling. Public transport agencies have also been asked to increase service frequency to avoid overcrowding, as many people may opt for buses and metro services instead of private vehicles.
Medical experts recommend that citizens, particularly those in sensitive groups, limit outdoor activities during early mornings and late evenings when pollution levels and fog combine to create hazardous conditions. Use of N95 masks, air purifiers at home, and frequent hydration are strongly advised. Schools in highly affected areas have been asked to monitor outdoor activities, and residents are encouraged to check daily AQI updates before planning outdoor routines.
The government has also urged industrial units in and around Delhi to follow emission guidelines strictly and avoid non-essential operations during peak pollution hours. Citizens are encouraged to reduce personal vehicle use, switch to public transport, and avoid burning waste or firecrackers, which could further deteriorate air quality.
The combination of poor air quality and shallow fog is affecting daily routines, including commuting, outdoor exercise, and morning school runs. Traffic congestion is reported on arterial roads, and flights at Indira Gandhi International Airport have occasionally faced minor delays due to reduced visibility. Health facilities are also seeing an increase in patients with respiratory complaints, highlighting the urgent need for preventive measures.
Meteorological departments have forecasted that shallow fog conditions may persist over the next few days, keeping AQI levels in the poor category. Experts emphasize that long-term measures such as promoting clean energy, stricter emission controls, and sustainable urban planning are essential to reduce Delhi’s recurring winter pollution crisis.
Residents are advised to stay updated on daily AQI readings and fog advisories through official apps and media channels to minimize health risks. Active participation from citizens, combined with government initiatives, is crucial to managing the city’s environmental and health challenges during this period.
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