EnvironmentMonday, 9 November 2026·Hindu Tamil Thisai
Delhi air pollution crosses AQI 400 at 15 stations; CPCB and WHO norms in focus
On November 9, 2026, Delhi recorded AQI above 400 at 15 monitoring stations, with PM2.5 levels far above WHO limits.
Key highlights
Direct fact
In November 2026, Delhi’s air quality worsened sharply after Diwali, with the Central Pollution Control Board reporting AQI above 400 at 15 monitoring stations and PM2.5 touching 760.99 micrograms per cubic metre at Akshardham on the night of November 8.
Key specifics
- 15 monitoring stations in Delhi recorded AQI above 400 at 6 a.m. on November 9, 2026.
- Akshardham reported PM2.5 at 760.99 µg/m³ on November 8, 2026, according to Delhi Pollution Control Board data.
- WHO’s 24-hour PM2.5 limit is 15 µg/m³, making the Akshardham reading about 50.73 times higher.
- The Supreme Court had allowed firecrackers in Delhi until 10 p.m. on Diwali night, after which pollution rose further.
- IMD said fog was likely over south, north and central Delhi, adding to the poor visibility conditions.
Exam lens
Question type: Environment and current-affairs data match. Key facts: AQI 400+, 15 stations, PM2.5 760.99 µg/m³, WHO limit 15 µg/m³, Supreme Court timing till 10 p.m. TNPSC may ask which body sets the 24-hour PM2.5 standard.