New Delhi: Delhi has recorded its lowest average Air Quality Index (AQI) for the January-May period in eight years, excluding the COVID-19-affected year of 2020. According to data released by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on May 31, 2026, the city’s average AQI during these five months stood at 211. This marks an improvement over 214 in 2025, 231 in 2024, and higher levels in previous years.
In May 2026 alone, Delhi registered an average AQI of 157, the second-lowest in the corresponding period over the eight years (excluding 2020-21). The city also recorded 75 days of ‘Good to Moderate’ air quality between January and May 2026.
This early-year improvement highlights the impact of sustained, year-round efforts by the Delhi government to tackle pollution at its source.
Proactive Steps by Delhi Government
The Delhi government, led by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, has implemented a comprehensive Air Pollution Mitigation Action Plan 2026. The plan focuses on multiple pollution sources with strict enforcement, infrastructure development, and public participation.
Vehicular Emission Control
The government has intensified enforcement of the “No PUC, No Fuel” policy, under which fuel stations deny petrol or diesel to vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control certificate. Camera-based monitoring and surprise checks are being carried out regularly. Entry of older, polluting heavy vehicles into Delhi has been further restricted.
A major thrust has been given to electrification of transport. The government aims to significantly expand the electric bus fleet and set up thousands of EV charging stations across the city. New registrations of two-wheelers, autos, and delivery vehicles are being encouraged to shift to electric models. Promotion of public transport, carpooling, and improved last-mile connectivity through e-rickshaws is also being prioritized to reduce private vehicle usage.
Road Dust Management
Road dust is a major year-round contributor to pollution. To address this, the administration has deployed a large number of mechanical road sweepers and water sprinklers on major roads, highways, and high-traffic areas. Anti-smog guns are being used at critical locations during dry spells. Regular monitoring ensures that dust-control measures are strictly followed.
Construction and Demolition Waste Control
Construction activities are being tightly regulated. All construction sites must mandatorily use dust suppression techniques such as covering scaffolding with tarpaulins, storing materials in covered areas, and carrying out regular water sprinkling. Progress is being made on setting up a large Construction and Demolition (C&D) waste processing facility with a target capacity of 1,000 tonnes per day. Efforts to remediate legacy waste at landfill sites are also underway to prevent fires and reduce emissions.
Waste Management and Industrial Emissions
The government has strengthened measures to prevent open burning of waste. Door-to-door collection and scientific processing of municipal waste are being improved. Industrial units in Delhi and NCR are under stricter monitoring to ensure compliance with emission norms and use of cleaner fuels.
Monitoring and Technology Integration
Delhi is expanding its real-time air quality monitoring network. A centralized Green War Room equipped with AI-based analytics has been strengthened for faster decision-making and response. Intelligent traffic management systems are being used to reduce congestion-related emissions.
These measures complement the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) of CAQM. In late May 2026, Stage-I of GRAP was invoked when AQI entered the ‘Poor’ category but was later revoked as air quality improved due to rainfall and favorable winds.
While the January-May 2026 data is encouraging, experts emphasize that sustained improvement will require continued strict implementation, better coordination with neighboring states, and effective control of stubble burning. The Delhi government has set clear targets for reduction in PM2.5 and PM10 levels this year.
This positive trend in the first five months of 2026 demonstrates that proactive and multi-sectoral actions can yield results. With continued public cooperation — such as adopting cleaner commuting habits and avoiding waste burning — Delhi can look forward to further improvements in air quality.
