Delhi winter air pollution: Indian capital faces smog crisis

In living rooms across Delhi, India, cardboard boxes containing air purifiers are being unpacked alongside festive decorations as winter approaches. Residents know all too well that this signals the start of months spent breathing hazardous air.

While the capital and its surrounding cities record exceptionally high pollution levels year-round, conditions deteriorate sharply during winter. Falling temperatures and gentle winds trap pollutants near the surface, compounded by agricultural stubble burning in neighboring states, vehicle and factory emissions, construction dust, and festive firecrackers.

Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event

In response, the Delhi government introduced its Winter Action Plan months ahead of peak smog season this year. The plan remains active from November 1 through February 28, covering the period when pollution traditionally spikes to dangerous levels.

The government's strategy restricts older, highly polluting vehicles entering from outside Delhi, denies fuel to vehicles lacking emission certificates, and temporarily halts dust-generating demolition and construction work. Additionally, authorities have urged offices to permit half of their staff to work remotely, introduced staggered working hours, and doubled parking fees.