Every year, Delhi and northern states battle hazardous air during the winter months of October to January due to plummeting temperatures, smoke, dust, low wind speed, vehicular emissions and crop stubble burning. This time, experts say that the condition is likely to get worse in the coming days.

Delhi's environment department has pinpointed 57 major pollution sources across 13 hotspots in the city. These hotspots, identified in 2018, have consistently recorded higher PM2.5 levels than the city's average.

A study published in June found that air pollution killed 135 million people over the last four decades around the world, with India and China accounting for the bulk of the fatalities. In 2023, Delhi’s AQI was recorded between 445 and 520 just a day after Diwali, placing it firmly in the “severe” category.

The onset of the winter season in Delhi has been marked by a massive rise in air pollution, leaving locals struggling with health issues. Delhi's air pollution remained at high levels on Monday after its average AQI was reported at 352,

Delhi residents are demanding action from authorities as the city's air quality remains in the 'very poor' range, two weeks after Diwali. Citizens report experiencing respiratory problems due to the heavy smog.