New Delhi, Dec 20, 2025 — As winter smog blankets many Indian cities, the Air Quality Index (AQI) has become a vital tool for understanding pollution levels and their impact on health.

What is AQI?

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a scale that measures air pollution on a range from 0 to 500. A lower score means cleaner air, while higher scores indicate dangerous pollution. AQI tracks harmful particles and gases such as PM2.5, PM10, ozone, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide.

🌍 Understanding AQI

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a standardized scale from 0 to 500 that indicates how clean or polluted the air is. It tracks pollutants such as PM2.5, PM10, ozone, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide.

📊 AQI Categories

• 0–50: Good — minimal risk
• 51–100: Satisfactory — mild discomfort possible
• 101–200: Moderate — sensitive groups affected
• 201–300: Poor — breathing trouble for many
• 301–400: Very Poor — serious health effects
• 401–500: Severe — emergency conditions

🚨 Why AQI Matters

• Health Impact: High AQI increases risks of asthma, heart disease, and respiratory infections.
• Daily Decisions: AQI guides whether it’s safe to exercise outdoors, send children to school, or commute.
• Policy & Awareness: Governments use AQI data to issue advisories and enforce pollution control measures.

🛡️ Safety Tips During Poor AQI

• Track AQI daily via weather apps or CPCB updates.
• Use N95 masks and indoor air purifiers.
• Avoid outdoor activity when AQI exceeds 200.
• Protect vulnerable groups like children and the old