India launched annual measures to combat air pollution in New Delhi, a megacity of 30 million inhabitants, among the world's most polluted capitals. Today, monitoring stations recorded 233 micrograms of particulate pollutants per cubic metre, equivalent to about 15 times the permitted limit.
© Sonu Mehta/Hindustan Times via Getty Images
22/10/2026
by
Lusa
A India launched its annual measures to combat toxic air pollution in New Delhi, a megacity of 30 million inhabitants that is among the most polluted capitals in the world.
Today, monitoring stations recorded 233 micrograms of particulate pollutants per cubic metre, equivalent to about 15 times the permitted limit. The Government Commission for Air Quality Management predicted that air quality will remain “bad” in the coming days.
Air quality worsens during winter in the Indian capital, when colder air retains pollutants near the ground. Among the main sources of pollution are coal-fired power stations, vehicle traffic, construction sites and burning of agricultural waste in neighbouring areas.
The New Delhi government announced, on Wednesday, the ban on burning waste in the open and determined that tents and catering establishments no longer use coal or wood.
Last year, pollution levels peaked at 846 micrograms per cubic metre — 56 times the limit recommended by the WHO.
The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) warned that polluted air exposes children to an increased risk of acute respiratory infections.
New restrictions will enter into force on 1 November, including duplication of parking charges and the adoption of telework for civil servants, with the aim of reducing emissions from road traffic.
More stringent construction rules will also enter into force on that date, followed by a total prohibition of construction and demolition works between December 10 and January 20.