With 22 ‘very poor’ days, Delhi sees most polluted November in 7 years

Delhi has endured its most polluted November in recent memory, with air quality levels that shattered previous records. For the first time in years, not a single day of the month fell into the ‘poor’ or better AQI categories, making 2024 a year that starkly underscores the escalating environmental crisis. An analysis of air quality data from 2018 to 2024 by India Today reveals that no prior November has witnessed such a persistent decline in air quality, with this year surpassing all others in terms of hazardous pollution levels.
The statistics for November 2024 paint a bleak picture. Out of 30 days, two were classified under the ‘severe plus’ category, the most hazardous AQI level.
These days saw thick smog shrouding the city, reducing visibility and driving a surge in respiratory and cardiovascular ailments. Six days were categorised as ‘severe’, and the remaining 22 days lingered in the ‘very poor’ category, indicating persistent exposure to dangerously high levels of pollutants.
The deteriorating trend becomes even more apparent when comparing 2024 to previous years. November 2023, though heavily polluted, recorded slightly better figures, including four days in the ‘poor’ category-something completely absent this year.
Similarly, November 2021 had its share of ‘severe plus’ days but still managed to include days classified as ‘poor’.
Even during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, when lockdowns brought temporary relief from pollution, the month included two ‘moderate’ days and ten ‘poor’ days, highlighting how unique and alarming this year’s data is.
While November has always been one of Delhi’s most challenging months for air quality, the trajectory over the years shows a steady decline.
Data from 2018 and 2022 illustrate how the situation has worsened. In 2018, air quality remained poor but did not reach ‘severe plus’ levels, with one ‘moderate’ day providing a rare respite. Similarly, 2022 saw days classified as ‘poor’ and no ‘severe plus’ days, making 2024’s relentless string of ‘very poor’ and worse AQI levels a stark outlier.
Experts attribute the worsening pollution to a combination of factors, including stubble burning in neighbouring states, construction dust, vehicular emissions, and industrial pollution, compounded by November’s unique meteorological conditions, which trap pollutants closer to the ground.