Winter Triggers Pollution Build-Up

AQI Dips Across Cities
Winter Triggers Pollution Build-Up

Pollution levels rise in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh

Winter has intensified air quality concerns across many Indian cities, with pollution levels rising as temperatures drop and winds weaken.

The combination of cool, stagnant air and increased emissions is causing pollutants to remain trapped near the surface, pushing AQI into poor to very poor categories in major urban centres.

Air Quality Index	Category & Color	What does it mean?
0 - 50	Good (green)	Safe to breathe. People not exposed to any health risk.
51 - 100	Satisfactory(light green)	Air quality safe for healthy adults.
101 - 200	Moderately Polluted (yellow)	Can cause difficulty breathing for people with respiratory conditions.
201 - 300	Poor (orange)	Unsafe for children, pregnant women and the elderly
301 - 400	Very Poor (red)	Prolonged exposure can cause chronic breathing problems.
401 - 500	Hazardous/Severe (maroon)	Prolonged exposure can lead to serious health problems and impairment.

Delhi-NCR, Lucknow, Kanpur and Patna are among the most affected, while some western cities are also reporting hazy mornings.

Delhi

Max (°C)

Min (°C)

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Residents are advised to limit early morning outdoor activities, use N95 masks when pollution spikes and keep air purifiers running indoors.

Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly and those with respiratory issues, should take extra precautions. Regular monitoring of local AQI remains essential this season.

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