Jan AQI worse than last year’s: Why rain failed to wash away Delhi’s pollution pain

Despite receiving 33% excess rainfall, January 2026 was more polluted than the previous year, with an average AQI of 307 compared to 305. The month experienced severe air quality days from January 17-19, a first in four years. While the last week saw improvement due to rain, adverse meteorology and high emissions contributed to the overall poor air quality.