Delhi’s air in January was choked not only by particulate matter but also by elevated levels of nitrogen dioxide, cancer-causing benzene and other toxic pollutants, with official data showing repeated breaches of safety limits across large parts of the capital. An analysis by EnviroCatalysts, an independent research body, based on monthly average air quality data till January 25, found that nitrogen dioxide levels exceeded recommended limits for more than 25 days at most monitoring stations in January. The analysis found that large parts of Delhi continued to record elevated nitrogen dioxide levels through January. However, Alipur recorded 37 micrograms per cubic metre, down from 57 micrograms per cubic metre in January last year. The analysis showed that nitrogen dioxide levels crossed the safe limits on more than 25 days this January, though lower than last year, when all 31 days of the month breached the standard.

Source: The Telegraph February 04, 2026 15:48 UTC