Delhi's air quality is poised for a significant improvement, with the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) outlining a detailed plan to usher in an era of more "blue-sky days" over the next 3-4 years. This initiative involves stricter regulations for industries and vehicles, coupled with consistent monitoring of crop stubble burning during the Rabi season.
The CAQM's strategy builds upon the progress already made in understanding pollution sources and implementing targeted actions. Key achievements include a reduction in stubble burning incidents, leading to fewer days with severe Air Quality Index (AQI) readings. Industries in the National Capital Region (NCR) are increasingly adhering to permitted fuel types, and vehicular pollution is being addressed through multi-faceted directives. Furthermore, legacy waste is gradually diminishing due to continuous monitoring and focused efforts.
While acknowledging the need for further action, the CAQM is strategically addressing vehicular traffic and industrial emissions, identified as major pollution sources. Industries are being mandated to install Air Pollution Control Devices (APCDs) and Online Continuous Emission/Effluent Monitoring Systems (OCEMS) to monitor emission levels. The Union Environment Minister has directed all industries to install OCEMS by December 31st, with inspection teams verifying compliance. To combat vehicular pollution, intercity buses entering Delhi are required to switch to BS-VI, CNG, or electric options.
To bolster the air quality monitoring network, the number of real-time continuous ambient air quality monitoring stations (CAAQMS) in Delhi-NCR is being increased from 84 to 111, with Delhi alone hosting 40 stations. Low-cost sensors are also being installed at construction sites exceeding 500 square meters to monitor dust emissions. Road agencies are encouraged to deploy similar sensors during and after road construction to maintain vigilance over dust levels.
The CAQM is also developing a new emission inventory and source apportionment study for Delhi-NCR, utilizing 2026 as the base year. This study, conducted by a consortium including ARAI, TERI, IITM Pune, and IIT Delhi, is expected to be completed by 2027. The resulting data will refine the algorithm used for air quality predictions, enabling more precise decision-making regarding the implementation or revocation of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).
Recent data indicates some improvements in Delhi's air quality, with 2025 showing a roughly 15-18% improvement compared to previous years, marking the cleanest annual average AQI since 2018 (excluding the COVID-affected years). The average annual AQI values show a fluctuating but generally improving trend from 2020 to 2025.
Despite these advancements, Delhi continues to experience severe air quality deterioration during the winter months, primarily due to crop stubble burning, vehicle and industrial emissions, and unfavorable weather conditions. On December 24, 2025, the CAQM lifted Stage 4 GRAP restrictions after strong winds improved air quality to "poor," but forecasts predicted a return to "very poor" conditions. As of December 29, 2025, Stage-3 GRAP measures are in effect across the NCR, including a ban on private construction activities and restrictions on BS-3 petrol and BS-4 diesel vehicles.
Looking ahead, the CAQM anticipates a significant reduction in the average AQI, leading to clearer skies and more blue-sky days in the next 3-4 years. This optimistic outlook is supported by ongoing efforts to abate air pollution in the NCR and adjoining areas.
