Delhi's Alarming Air Quality: Worst PM10, Second-Worst PM2.5 in India for 2025

• Delhi recorded the highest annual average PM10 concentration in India for 2025 at 197 micrograms per cubic metre, nearly three times the national standard.
• The capital exceeded the PM10 standard on 285 days and the PM2.5 standard on 212 days in 2025, indicating prolonged hazardous air exposure.
• Delhi was the second most polluted city for PM2.5 in India, with an annual average of 96 micrograms per cubic metre, almost double the national standard.
• Only 33% of allocated clean air funds were utilized by Delhi, making it one of the weakest performers in fund utilization.
• Seven years into the NCAP, Delhi and other cities are far from meeting air quality standards, and the 40% PM10 reduction target is unachievable within the current timeframe.

Why It Matters: Delhi faces severe air pollution, failing to meet standards and effectively utilize clean air funds, requiring urgent action.