Delhi: average air quality index over the 7 days to 24 August 2026 was 103, above the 5-year median of 84 for the same week (+23%).

Daily figures mostly reflect the weather, so the observatory compares the mean of the last seven days with the same week in up to five earlier years. A breach means this week sits well outside what those years would lead you to expect, and by at least 15%. It is reported when an unusual run begins and for the latest day while it lasts, not every day.

For average air quality index, lower is better. This movement is therefore assessed as a deterioration.

This is a small-sample figure (e.g. a single monitoring city). Same week in earlier years: 2025 84, 2024 83, 2023 103, 2022 84, 2021 106. Daily values are compared as 7-day means because a single day mostly reflects weather.

Full history of average air quality index in Delhi