Air Quality Index Delhi – Real‑Time Updates, Health Tips & Forecast
If you live in Delhi or plan to visit, the Air Quality Index (AQI) is the first thing you should check each day. It tells you how clean or polluted the air is and what it means for your health. Delhi’s AQI can swing from “Good” to “Hazardous” within hours, so staying informed can save you from headaches, breathing problems, and more serious issues.
Understanding Delhi’s AQI Levels
Delhi’s AQI is calculated using concentrations of pollutants like PM2.5, PM10, NO2, SO2, CO, and O3. The number you see on your phone or TV falls into a color‑coded band:
- 0‑50 (Green): Good – no health risk.
- 51‑100 (Yellow): Moderate – sensitive groups should limit prolonged outdoor activity.
- 101‑200 (Orange): Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups – children, elderly, and people with asthma should stay indoors.
- 201‑300 (Red): Unhealthy – everyone may feel effects; avoid outdoor exertion.
- 301‑500 (Purple/Maroon): Very Unhealthy to Hazardous – stay inside, use air purifiers, and keep windows closed.
During winter months, Delhi often sees PM2.5 levels above 200 µg/m³, pushing the AQI into the “Very Unhealthy” range. Crop‑burning in neighboring states, traffic congestion, and construction dust all add up. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) releases daily forecasts, and most weather apps now show Delhi’s AQI alongside temperature and rain predictions.
How to Protect Yourself When Air Quality Drops
When the AQI spikes, simple actions can reduce your exposure. Keep windows and doors shut, especially during rush‑hour traffic peaks. If you have an air purifier, set it to “auto” or “PM2.5” mode; a HEPA filter removes most harmful particles. For short trips, wear a N95 or N99 mask – it blocks at least 95 % of PM2.5.
Indoor plants like spider plant, snake plant, or peace lily can help, but they’re not a substitute for a proper filtration system. Hydrate well and avoid smoking, as dehydration makes your lungs more vulnerable. If you notice coughing, wheezing, or eye irritation, step outside for a few minutes and then go back indoors; this “air‑break” can clear some of the irritation.
Kids and seniors need extra care. Plan indoor activities when the AQI forecast is above 150. Schools in Delhi sometimes shift to online classes on high‑pollution days – keep an eye on announcements. For commuters, consider using metro or car‑pooling to cut down personal exposure and overall traffic emissions.
Long‑term, supporting policies that reduce emissions—like using public transport, planting trees, or advocating for stricter industrial regulations—helps keep Delhi’s AQI from hitting hazardous levels. While you can’t control the weather, staying aware and acting fast when the numbers rise makes a real difference to your health.
Ready to check today’s AQI? Open your favorite weather app, look for the Delhi entry, and note the color code. If it’s orange or higher, follow the protection tips above. Keep this page bookmarked for quick updates, health advice, and a clear explanation of what each AQI number means for you.
