OUTDOOR AIR POLLUTION
Can closing windows keep wildfire smoke out? How much smoke still gets in and do air purifiers work?
Closing windows can reduce how much smoke from wildfires gets indoors, but some can still seep in. A 2026 NIST experiment found that a portable air cleaner’s performance depended partly on how air moved between rooms.
Delhi air pollution: Health experts warn of health risks as even healthy people report symptoms
Doctors from AIIMS and Apollo Hospitals report that Delhi's severe air pollution causes respiratory issues among healthy individuals. Dr. Vijay Hadda emphasizes that green crackers only partially mitigate harmful emissions from conventional firecrackers. Young people aged 20-50 are also complaining of symptoms, indicating widespread health effects. Continuous exposure to high pollution levels can lead to persistent symptoms appearing within hours.
How to protect yourself from rising air pollution and smog: 6 practical tips and guide to choosing the right air purifier
Rising air pollution and smog affect daily life in India, particularly during winter months. Taking precautions such as wearing masks can help mitigate exposure to polluted air. Keeping windows and doors closed is essential during times of severe pollution. Regular home cleaning and avoiding indoor burning can improve indoor air quality effectively. Choosing the right air purifier involves considering room size, filter costs, and energy consumption.
Weather Tomorrow November 10: IMD predicts rain, thunderstorms and heavy showers across several states; check forecast for Delhi, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and more
Tomorrow Weather: In the bustling city of Delhi, residents should brace for a day of hazy sunshine accompanied by poor air quality. Meanwhile, those in Tamil Nadu should prepare for heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. Jammu and Kashmir will see chillier temperatures with partly cloudy skies, while Kerala can expect afternoon showers. Weather conditions will vary across Andhra Pradesh's districts, and Odisha is set for predominantly sunny skies.
Delhi AQI today: Air pollution readings turns severe after Diwali bursts: Check area-wise levels here
Delhi AQI Live: Delhi's air quality turned into severe category on November 9, 2026, following Diwali celebrations and firecracker bursts. While the official citywide AQI stood at 372, several monitoring stations across the national capital recorded readings above 400, placing them in the Severe category. Here's a look at the latest Delhi AQI, area-wise pollution readings and reasons behind the post-Diwali deterioration.
Diwali 2026: You can't control outdoor air pollution, but 6 things you can do to improve indoor air quality during Diwali firecracker season without an air purifier
Diwali festivities, while joyous, often contribute to heightened air pollution from firecrackers and outdoor emissions. To combat indoor air quality issues during this period, consider keeping windows shut and steering clear of incense burning to minimize smoke. Regular cleaning and maintaining home appliances can effectively reduce dust buildup. Although indoor plants add a touch of beauty, they don't significantly enhance air quality throughout Diwali.
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Gurgaon work from home advisory: Half of government & private office staff to work remotely amid pollution; check exemptions and deadline
The Gurugram district administration has directed government and private offices to allow only 50% of their staff to work from the office, with the remaining employees working from home, from November 5 to 20. The measures, announced to curb air pollution, also include restrictions on construction and demolition activities across the district. The order has been issued in compliance with directions from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM).
GRAP II imposed in Delhi with immediate effect amid 'very poor' air quality; check key restrictions
GRAP Stage II has been implemented in Delhi-NCR due to a significant decline in air quality. The Commission for Air Quality Management reported an increase in the AQI from 117 to 324 recently. These figures indicate a shift to the 'very poor' category following unfavorable weather conditions. Authorities will now intensify measures to reduce dust pollution and promote public transportation.
Delhi's winter pollution curbs kick off with Rs 68.4 lakh in fines, 1,539 vehicles turned back on day one
The Winter Action Plan kicked off successfully in Delhi, with enforcement teams collecting fines of Rs 68.4 lakh on day one. A total of 14,930 vehicles underwent inspection, with 1,539 turned back and 566 challans issued for pollution discrepancies. In their efforts to mitigate dust pollution, officials examined 300 construction sites, resulting in Rs 9.8 lakh levied for infractions.
BS-IV vehicles barred, WFH mandates, construction ban: Delhi’s winter pollution crackdown begins
Delhi has introduced measures to address winter air pollution, including vehicle restrictions and construction curbs. Many government and private offices will operate with a 50% capacity requirement to reduce emissions. Restrictions will apply to older vehicles and dust-generating construction activities during this period. Schools have also been instructed to implement dust-control measures and promote public transport. Authorities plan to monitor compliance with these pollution curbing measures across the region.
Delhi pollution restrictions from November 1: 50% WFH, parking charges to double, vehicle curbs and more; check full list under winter action plan
Delhi vehicle restrictions from November 1: The Delhi government will enforce various anti-pollution measures to improve air quality from November 1. From restricting older vehicles to banning dust-generating construction activities, the government has launched a winter action plan to combat the air pollution that chokes the city annually. Under the restrictions, parking charges will double to discourage the use of private vehicles and encourage public transport usage. Additionally, a 50% work-from-home policy will also be implemented in government and private offices during the winter months.
Delhi-NCR pollution: CAQM orders construction ban, 50% work-from-home from November 5 to 20
The Commission for Air Quality Management has implemented a ban on construction activities in Delhi-NCR from November 5 to 20. This measure aims to combat the worsening air quality in the region during this period. Additionally, government and private offices in Delhi and surrounding areas should allow up to 50% of their employees to work from home.
Delhi gears up for pollution curbs from Nov 1; vehicle restrictions, construction ban among measures
Delhi is preparing to implement various measures aimed at reducing air pollution starting from November 1. Restrictions on certain vehicles, a ban on dust-generating construction, and increased parking charges will be enforced. The entry of vehicles not meeting BS-VI emission standards will be prohibited from November 1 to January 31.
Pakistan's Lahore becomes the world's most polluted city as AQI hits hazardous 410
Lahore was ranked the world's most polluted city on Friday after its AQI reached 410, a hazardous level, according to IQAir. The platform reported that PM2.5 pollution was 45.2 times the World Health Organisation's annual guideline value. The city and other parts of Pakistan's Punjab province face recurring smog between October and February, prompting health experts to advise residents to limit exposure to polluted air.
For Delhi's air, nip pollutants in the bud
Delhi government's new initiative involves private sector and startups to deploy pollution-reducing technologies in high-pollution areas. Previous attempts have included smog towers and air purifiers, yet results have been disappointing. The city's geography poses challenges for air circulation, necessitating comprehensive source-level pollution reduction approaches. Improving public transport and waste management will contribute to cleaner air in the region. Technology and stakeholder collaboration are essential for effective pollution reduction strategies.
Delhi-NCR invokes GRAP-I as AQI rises to 244, air quality likely to remain ‘poor’
The Commission for Air Quality Management has invoked Stage-I of GRAP across Delhi-NCR after Delhi’s AQI rose sharply from 179 on October 20 to 244 by 2 pm on October 21. With forecasts predicting poor air quality over the coming days, agencies have been directed to intensify anti-pollution measures.
Delhi’s winter pollution countdown begins: Three new restrictions to be introduced after AQI rises to 179 after Dussehra
Delhi's AQI has risen to 179 ahead of the winter pollution season, with forecasts pointing to poor air quality. The government has announced three key deadlines for new restrictions, including curbs on certain outside-registered vehicles, tighter construction rules and a complete construction and demolition ban from December 10 to January 20.
Weather the Weather: A seasonal guide to food, fitness, skincare and staying healthy
As the seasons change, your wardrobe shouldn’t be the only thing that needs a reset. A better approach, finds Lijee Philip, is to prepare for the weather shift before the symptoms appear. Here’s an all-weather reset guide
DPCC floats tenders for pollution-control technologies at 40 Delhi sites
The Delhi Pollution Control Committee has invited e-tenders to address air pollution at 40 identified sites. This initiative includes a budget of Rs 104 crore to monitor outdoor air quality effectively. The contract will be divided into 40 separate schedules, and bids will open on October 6. Eligible bidders must meet specific financial and experience criteria, with relaxed rules for registered startups.
Weather today: Check latest IMD prediction for rain, temperature and AQI updates for Delhi, Mumbai, Patna, UP, Uttarakhand, Himachal and other places
IMD weather forecast for October 10, 2026, predicts rain and thunderstorms in several states, including Kerala, Tamil Nadu and parts of northern and eastern India. Mumbai is facing high temperatures and elevated AQI, while Delhi-NCR residents should monitor air quality.
Supreme Court rules out blanket ban on fireworks in Delhi; bats for time-bound use
The Supreme Court has said that it would permit the controlled use of firecrackers for Diwali celebrations this year. The court proposed specific time limits to prevent environmental damage and protect vulnerable groups. It also considered suggestions about allowing joint firecrackers with restrictions.
Delhi announces construction ban, parking charges to double, orders WFH under Winter Pollution Plan: Check full list of measures
Delhi winter pollution news: Delhi government has announced new measures to combat pollution and manage construction activities. Starting November 1, parking charges will be doubled, and office timings changed for government employees. A complete ban on construction and demolition will take effect from December 10, while 50% workforce will work from home until February 28. Outdoor civil construction and demolition will be restricted during this period.
US weather today: Dallas, Chicago, Miami, Boston, Los Angeles and Washington DC forecast for September 26
Weather conditions on September 26, 2026, will differ significantly among major US cities. Boston will experience heavy rain and strong winds, while Los Angeles will remain sunny and warm. Dallas is set for high temperatures and poor air quality, in contrast to Chicago's cooler weather. Washington DC will see a mix of sunshine and clouds, with a chance of rain.
In New Mexico, 10,388 homes received free weatherization upgrades; the program reports 27% lower energy use and $210-$250 in annual utility savings
New Mexico's Energy$mart program provides complimentary home weatherization services, enabling residents to cut their utility bills by more than 25%. Since its launch in 2010, it has positively impacted thousands of families, offering notable annual savings. Beyond financial rewards, this program enhances indoor air quality and alleviates household stress, while also benefiting the environment by conserving resources and reducing carbon emissions, exemplifying how government action can improve lives.
What if cleaning the air could make the world richer? UN-backed report reveals a $15 return for every $1 spent on pollution and climate action
A UN report highlights that addressing air pollution and climate change together offers economic gains. Coordinated actions could prevent millions of premature deaths and slow global warming significantly. Every dollar invested in these measures is projected to yield fifteen dollars in returns. By 2035, annual benefits would equal nearly three percent of global GDP. This integrated approach presents a trillion-dollar opportunity for global development and stability.
Outdoor air pollution accounts for over 2 million deaths annually in India: BMJ study
Outdoor air pollution from all sources accounts for 2.18 million deaths per year in India, second only to China, according to a modelling study published in The BMJ. The research found that air pollution from using fossil fuels in industry, power generation, and transportation accounts for 5.1 million extra deaths a year worldwide.
Smart cities may help combat air quality issues: Scientists
Lack of real-time air pollution data hinders simple safety precautions that could improve health and well-being, researchers said.
Air pollution is world’s top environmental health risk, WHO says
Air pollution is the world’s biggest environmental health risk, causing at least one in eight deaths around the globe, the World Health Organization has said.
'Air pollution causes 8m deaths/yr'
Deaths due to air pollution have increased fourfold across the globe over the past decade, the latest assessment by the World Health Organization shows.
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