On 22 October 2025, the national capital’s air-quality readings showed a stark contrast: CPCB reported an AQI of approximately 351, while IQAir’s measurement soared past 1,100. The explanation lies in differing methodology — CPCB’s index is capped at 500, uses reference-grade monitors and Indian standards, while IQAir draws on lower-cost sensors, global standard conversions and reports raw values beyond 500. Both readings are technically correct within their frameworks, but the discrepancy has sparked public confusion and highlights the challenge of interpreting air-quality data. (PC: NDTV)

Delhi’s air quality worsened sharply after two days of Diwali celebrations, reaching the ‘very poor’ and ‘severe’ categories. The city’s average AQI was 341 on Wednesday afternoon, with Punjabi Bagh recording the highest at 419. Areas like Anand Vihar, ITO, and Ashok Vihar also reported ‘very poor’ air. The lowest AQI, 209, was seen at Lodhi Road and DTU. The Commission for Air Quality Management has enforced Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan, which includes higher parking fees and curbs on diesel generators and polluting vehicles to reduce emissions across Delhi-NCR. (PC: HT)

Delhi's air quality plummeted to the 'very poor' category following Diwali celebrations, with some areas recording 'severe' levels. The overall Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 338 as of 8 AM on Wednesday, October 22, 2025. Notably, Punjabi Bagh and Wazirpur had AQIs of 433 and 401, respectively, both in the 'severe' category. The spike in pollution is attributed to widespread firecracker use beyond the stipulated time, leading to a toxic mix of pollutants and heavy metals. Experts warn of worsening conditions due to factors like stubble burning and unfavorable meteorological conditions. (PC: PTI)  

Several districts in Tamil Nadu have declared holidays for schools and colleges following continuous heavy rainfall that has disrupted daily life across the region. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has also issued a yellow alert for 10 districts in Kerala, warning of more rain, thunderstorms, and possible flooding. Areas in Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, and Thoothukudi witnessed severe downpours leading to waterlogging and traffic delays. Disaster management teams are on high alert, and residents in low-lying and hilly regions have been advised to remain cautious due to risks of landslides and flash floods.    

Tamil Nadu is on high alert as continuous heavy rain hits several districts. The weather office has issued a red alert for eight coastal districts, including Cuddalore, Mayiladuthurai, and Nagapattinam. A low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal may soon develop into a cyclone. Schools and colleges in affected areas are closed as precaution. Chennai recorded up to 100 mm of rainfall, with water released from reservoirs to prevent flooding. Fishermen have been told not to venture into the sea. Chief Minister MK Stalin reviewed emergency measures while rescue teams prepared for possible evacuation and relief work. (PC: NDTV)

Delhi’s air quality hit its worst post-Diwali level in five years despite claims of using ‘green’ firecrackers. PM2.5 levels touched 488 micrograms per cubic metre on average and peaked at 675 on Diwali night — about 100 times the safe limit. Experts said weak winds and dropping temperatures trapped the pollution. Data showed that local emissions, not stubble burning, were the main cause this year. The air quality index was higher than the last three years, proving that ‘green’ crackers made little difference. Health experts warned of serious risks to children and the elderly. (PC: NDTV)

Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa ruled out immediate artificial rain plans despite post-Diwali air quality hitting 'severe' levels across the capital. While addressing concerns Tuesday, Sirsa emphasized cloud seeding requires actual clouds, responding to critics he called "illiterate people burning with vengeance." The Delhi government remains fully prepared with trained pilots and necessary permissions secured for the cloud seeding operation. Both pilots recently completed trial flights, familiarizing themselves with designated areas over four days of successful training. Sirsa confirmed they're awaiting the Meteorological Department's green signal within two to three days. Once favorable weather conditions emerge with cloud formation, sample seeding will commence immediately to combat worsening air pollution plaguing Delhi. (PC: Times Now) 

Delhi has been ranked the world’s most polluted city by Swiss air quality firm IQAir, recording an AQI of 350 on October 21, 2025. Mumbai and Kolkata also made the top 10, at 5th and 8th respectively. Lahore and Karachi from Pakistan ranked 2nd and 4th. The spike follows Diwali celebrations, where firecracker use exceeded Supreme Court’s permitted hours. Several Delhi areas, including Bawana and Jahangirpuri, recorded AQI levels above 401, classified as ‘severe’. The CPCB defines AQI above 300 as ‘very poor’ and above 400 as ‘severe’. The list also includes cities from Kuwait, Uzbekistan, Qatar, Australia, and Indonesia, highlighting a global air quality crisis.

Delhi-NCR's air quality plummeted into the 'red zone' following Diwali celebrations with fireworks on Monday night, turning the air toxic with thick haze. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, 36 out of 38 monitoring stations recorded 'very poor' to 'severe' air quality. Ghaziabad recorded the highest pollution at 329 AQI, while Gurugram hit 340 and Rohtak 345. Despite Supreme Court restrictions allowing green firecrackers only between 8-10 pm, celebrations continued past the deadline. Delhi's overall AQI reached 345, with four stations including Dwarka, Ashok Vihar, Wazirpur, and Anand Vihar reporting 'severe' levels above 400. The Commission for Air Quality Management invoked Stage II GRAP measures across Delhi-NCR.

Delhi’s air quality worsened sharply on Diwali, with 34 of 38 monitoring stations recording pollution levels in the ‘red zone’. The city’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) rose to 345, up from 326 a day earlier, according to the Central Pollution Control Board. Wazirpur recorded the worst AQI at 423, followed by Dwarka and Anand Vihar. Officials warned that pollution may rise further in the coming days. The Commission for Air Quality Management has enforced Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan across Delhi-NCR. The Supreme Court had earlier allowed limited use of green firecrackers for Diwali celebrations. (PC: X)