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Delhiites Visit Dehradun To Escape Pollution, Only To Find AQI At 300

Dehradun, India – For years, the hill station of Dehradun has served as a refuge for Delhi residents seeking respite from the capital's notoriously polluted air. However, recent data indicates a concerning trend: Dehradun's air quality has deteriorated to levels mirroring those of Delhi, leaving many visitors dismayed.

On Wednesday, December 17, 2025, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Dehradun reached 300, falling into the "poor" category. Several locations within Dehradun recorded AQI levels in the "severe" category. This is a stark contrast to the "satisfactory" levels the city once boasted, prompting serious questions about its viability as a pollution escape route.

The primary culprits behind Dehradun's worsening air quality are the increasing volume of vehicular traffic, the burning of waste, and frequent forest fires in the surrounding hills. Professor Vijay Shridhar, head of the pollution monitoring center at Doon University, noted that while air movement during the day provides some relief, the AQI consistently crosses the 300 mark at night. He characterized the situation as not yet comparable to Delhi but far from satisfactory.

The impact of the pollution is visible. Locals report that the Mussoorie hills, usually clearly visible from Dehradun, are now obscured by a layer of smog. Residents are also experiencing health issues, with some young people seen wearing masks outdoors. "They experience a burning sensation in their throats, and the problem worsens during the winter," said one Dehradun resident.

The influx of tourists seeking cleaner air in Uttarakhand is placing a strain on the region's infrastructure and environment. While destinations like Corbett National Park offer relatively pristine air, the increased traffic and footfall are raising concerns about pollution and congestion in other areas. A hotelier in Ramnagar voiced fears that the town could become like Delhi if preventative measures are not taken.

Adding to the problem, some of the smart LED displays installed to provide real-time AQI data in Dehradun are showing outdated and inaccurate information, causing confusion and concern among the public.

Experts warn that if concrete steps are not taken promptly, Dehradun's air quality could soon become indistinguishable from Delhi's, posing a significant health challenge for residents. They emphasize the urgent need for sustainable tourism strategies, better pollution control measures, and climate resilience initiatives to protect both the cities and the fragile ecosystems of the Himalayan foothills. Until then, Delhiites seeking clean air may need to look beyond Dehradun.