Delhi’s January Air Quality Ranks Second Best in Recent Years.

Air pollution in Delhi was slightly higher this January than last year, but the month still ranks among the cleanest January periods since 2022. Data checked by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) shows that the average Air Quality Index (AQI) up to January 30 was 307. During the same time in 2025, the average AQI was 306.

The study shows that January 2025 had the lowest pollution level for the month in the past few years, with an average AQI of 306. In 2022, the monthly average AQI was 279. Based on current data, January 2026 is now the second-cleanest January after these years.

Looking at daily air levels, January 2026 had two days in the “moderate” range, 12 days in the “poor” range, 14 days in the “very poor” range, and two days marked as “severe.” In January 2025, there were two “moderate” days, 13 “poor” days, and 16 “very poor” days. No “severe” days were recorded that month.

Experts say the two “severe” days this year may be one reason the average AQI is a little higher than last year.

The air warning system says the air on January 31 is likely to stay in the “very poor” range.

The Central Pollution Control Board classifies AQI levels like this: 0–50 is “good,” 51–100 is “satisfactory,” 101–200 is “moderate,” 201–300 is “poor,” 301–400 is “very poor,” and 401–500 is “severe.