Whatever the causes of the smog, by one ranking Delhi was not just the most polluted city in the world, but “nearly five times as bad as the second most polluted city, Dhaka,” in Bangladesh next door, as Shashi Tharoor, a leader of the opposition in Parliament and best-selling author, posted on X.

Delhi's air quality plunged to 'very poor', with a thick layer of haze blanketing the national capital, early on Tuesday (November 26, 2024). At 9 a.m., Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 392, compared to a reading of 281 at 9 a.m. on Monday (November 25, 2024), according to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data.

Delhi's air quality slightly improved to 'very poor' on Tuesday morning, with an AQI of 382, after experiencing 'severe' levels the previous week. Schools are instructed to operate in a hybrid mode (online and offline) for all classes until further notice,

Hundreds of millions of Indians breathe some of the world’s most toxic air all year round. Air pollution in the capital area that’s home to about 30 million people is especially stubborn. In winter, the cold weather actually makes the smog even worse — and potent.

Unhealthy

Delhi's air quality improves to 'very poor' from 'severe,' prompting schools to adopt a hybrid learning model amid persistent smog and health concerns.

Delhi's air quality worsens to near 'severe' levels, prompting schools to continue online classes amid pollution concerns.

The CAQM noted that Delhi's primary schools lack resources for online classes, particularly affecting Classes 10 and 12. It directed state governments to implement hybrid learning for all up to grade 12.