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Delhi records third-worst Diwali air pollution since 2021, data gaps persist
✍️ Hindustan Times
🗓 09 Nov 2026, 09:39 AM
👁 18
Air quality monitoring in Delhi showed the city experienced its third‑worst pollution levels during Diwali since 2021, but more than half of the stations stopped reporting data around midnight, leaving the full extent unclear.
The Central Pollution Control Board’s (CPCB) real‑time network recorded Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) soaring to levels that rank as the third‑worst during Diwali since systematic monitoring began in 2021. Peak readings were recorded on the evening of November 1, with several locations crossing the ‘severe’ threshold.
However, the reliability of the dataset is compromised. More than 50% of the city’s monitoring stations ceased transmitting readings shortly after midnight, creating a significant data gap for the critical early‑morning hours when pollutant concentrations typically peak.
Environmental officials acknowledged the shortfall and urged citizens to continue observing health advisories, such as limiting outdoor activity and using masks. The CPCB has pledged to investigate the technical failures and improve the resilience of the monitoring network ahead of next year’s festivities.
However, the reliability of the dataset is compromised. More than 50% of the city’s monitoring stations ceased transmitting readings shortly after midnight, creating a significant data gap for the critical early‑morning hours when pollutant concentrations typically peak.
Environmental officials acknowledged the shortfall and urged citizens to continue observing health advisories, such as limiting outdoor activity and using masks. The CPCB has pledged to investigate the technical failures and improve the resilience of the monitoring network ahead of next year’s festivities.