New Delhi: The national capital and Mumbai both woke up to polluted skies on Monday, with thick haze and reduced visibility reported across key areas.

In Delhi, the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 318 at 7 am, firmly in the ‘very poor’ category, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). A dense layer of smog blanketed the city, with little sign of improvement.

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Several monitoring stations reflected hazardous conditions: ITO recorded an AQI of 354, while Ashok Vihar (338), Bawana (368), Burari (327), Chandni Chowk (321) and Dwarka (325) all remained in the ‘very poor’ range. Iconic landmarks such as India Gate and Kartavya Path were barely visible through the haze.

The toxic air persisted just a day after Delhi registered an AQI of 397, underscoring the severity of winter pollution in the capital.

Mumbai records AQI ‘moderate’ 

Mumbai too experienced a dip in air quality, with several parts of the city waking up to a blanket of haze. Bandra Reclamation and surrounding areas reported reduced visibility, as early morning visuals showed smog hanging over the coastline and arterial roads.

According to CPCB data, the AQI in Bandra Reclamation was 125 at 8 am, placing it in the ‘moderate’ category. While less severe than Delhi, the haze has prompted concern among residents as winter conditions intensify.

What do the AQI numbers indicate?

The AQI scale, ranging from 0 to 500, is divided into six categories:

  • 0–50: Good – Minimal or no health impact.
  • 51–100: Satisfactory – Acceptable air quality, though sensitive groups may feel mild discomfort.
  • 101–200: Moderate – May cause breathing difficulties in those with asthma, lung or heart conditions.
  • 201–300: Poor – Prolonged exposure can cause discomfort even among healthy individuals.
  • 301–400: Very Poor – Risk of respiratory illness increases, affecting even those without pre-existing conditions.
  • 401–500: Severe – Hazardous for everyone, posing serious health risks.