Delhi continues to grapple with severe air pollution, with the city recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 355 on Saturday morning, placing it in the &lsquo;very poor&rsquo; category. Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) showed that air quality has remained consistently unhealthy over the past week, prompting the government to implement multiple anti-pollution measures.
By 3 pm on Saturday, Bawana recorded the worst air quality in the city at 410, while Dwarka experienced relatively better conditions at 201.
Ban on older commercial vehicles
 In a bid to curb vehicular emissions, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has banned entry of all non-Delhi-registered BS-III and lower-standard commercial vehicles into the capital from November 1. BS standards, or Bharat Stage emission regulations, limit the amount of pollutants a vehicle can emit. Non-compliant Light, Medium, and Heavy Goods Vehicles will no longer be allowed into Delhi, a move aimed at improving the city&rsquo;s air quality.
Adjustment in government office hours
 Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced changes to office timings for Delhi government and Municipal Corporation employees to ease peak-hour traffic. Currently, Delhi government offices operate from 9:30 am to 6 pm, and the Municipal Corporation from 9 am to 5:30 pm. A longer gap between opening and closing hours is expected to reduce the number of vehicles on the road simultaneously, easing congestion and pollution.
Promotion of public transport and carpooling CM Gupta also encouraged residents to use carpooling and public transport options like the metro to reduce vehicular emissions. Private firms are being urged to allow work-from-home arrangements wherever possible to help mitigate pollution exposure.
Parking fee hike The New Delhi Municipal Corporation has doubled parking charges at civic-managed sites across the city to discourage private vehicle use. The revised rates are ₹40 per hour for four-wheelers, ₹20 per hour for two-wheelers, and ₹300 per hour for buses. The hike does not apply to on-street parking or monthly pass holders and will remain in effect until the air quality improves.
Authorities continue to monitor pollution levels closely and may take further action if the situation worsens.

Delhi Air Quality Worsens, Govt Takes Measures

AQI hits 355 as Delhi enforces vehicle restrictions, office timing changes

Delhi Air Quality Worsens, Govt Takes Measures

AQI hits 355 as Delhi enforces vehicle restrictions, office timing changes

November 8, 2025 | 17:41 IST