Delhi Records Lowest September Average AQI in Five Years

Delhi recorded its lowest average Air Quality Index (AQI) for the month of September in five years, according to data released by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. The city's September average AQI stood at 102 in 2026, compared with 105 in 2025 and 2024, 108 in 2023 and 104 in 2022.

The ministry also reported an improvement in the number of days with relatively better air quality during the January–September period. Delhi recorded 194 days with a daily average AQI below 200 in 2026. This was the highest number recorded during the corresponding nine-month period over the previous five years. The figure compares with 187 days in 2025, 188 in 2024, 193 in 2023 and 146 in 2022.

The number of days classified in the Poor to Severe+ range also declined. Delhi recorded 79 such days between January and September 2026, compared with 86 each in 2025 and 2024, 80 in 2023 and 127 in 2022.

Data on fine particulate pollution showed a similar trend in the official assessment. Average PM2.5 concentration during January–September 2026, up to 28 September, was recorded at 69 micrograms per cubic metre. This matched the figure for the corresponding period in 2025 and was lower than the levels recorded in 2024, 2023 and 2022.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) is continuing to coordinate with relevant agencies to control and reduce pollution across Delhi-NCR. The ministry said measures to improve air quality would be strengthened further in the coming months.

The figures indicate an improvement in several air-quality indicators, although pollution remains an ongoing environmental concern for the national capital.

30-09-2026