Delhi records lowest average October AQI in eight years at 166
On 31 October 2026, the Environment Ministry said Delhi's average AQI for October 2026 was 166, the lowest for October in eight years, against 223 in October 2025.
Summary
Delhi recorded a monthly average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 166 in October 2026, the lowest for the month in the last eight years, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change said on 31 October 2026. The October average was 223 in 2025 and 269 in 2018. From January to October 2026, Delhi had 220 'Good to Moderate' days (AQI below 200), the highest since 2018 except 2020, and 84 'Poor to Severe+' days. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) said it will intensify efforts to further improve air quality in Delhi-NCR.
Key facts
- October 2026 average AQI
- 166 (lowest October in 8 years)
- October 2025
- 223
- Jan–Oct 2026 average AQI
- 167
- Good to Moderate days (Jan–Oct)
- 220 – highest since 2018 except 2020
- Poor to Severe+ days (Jan–Oct)
- 84
- Agency
- Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)
Practice MCQs 2 questions
What was Delhi's monthly average AQI for October 2026, the lowest for October in eight years?
Show answer
Correct answer: B — 166
How many 'Good to Moderate' AQI days did Delhi record from January to October 2026?
Show answer
Correct answer: C — 220