Politics · India Bureau
Delhi's October air quality reaches decade-best levels on pollution curbs
Delhi's Air Quality Index improved to 191 on October 24, marking the cleanest air recorded on that date in a decade, the Delhi government said. The improvement comes as authorities intensify enforcement and dust control measures across the capital.
LSN India ·
Delhi recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 191 on Saturday, the lowest reading for October 24 in ten years when excluding the Covid pandemic period, according to the state Environment Department. The AQI falls within the 'moderate' category, indicating acceptable air quality levels for most residents.
The measurement represents a significant improvement compared to previous years, with the AQI standing at 306 on October 24, 2024, and 275 on the same date in 2025. Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa attributed the improvement to the government's comprehensive approach combining enforcement action, continuous monitoring, and public engagement in pollution control efforts.
To achieve the reduction, authorities have stepped up anti-pollution operations substantially. In the last 24 hours alone, traffic enforcement teams issued 9,883 vehicle challans for pollution violations. Sanitation crews mechanically swept 2,810 kilometres of roads while water sprinkling operations covered an additional 1,075 kilometres to suppress dust particles. Waste management teams also removed 12,702 metric tonnes of debris and lifted 2,223 metric tonnes of construction and demolition waste.
The figures underscore Delhi's ongoing battle against air pollution, particularly during October and November when meteorological conditions typically trap pollutants near the surface. The government's multi-pronged strategy continues targeting major pollution sources including vehicle emissions, construction activities, and waste management.