World news • 13 November 2026
Hazardous air in India’s capital
Delhi overtook Lahore to rank as the world’s most polluted major city in a Friday snapshot reported by Reuters, as thick smog covered roads and reduced visibility. Air-quality monitoring group IQAir reported an index reading of 334, categorised as hazardous under its scale. The ranking is time-sensitive and may change during the day as weather and pollution levels fluctuate.
Different measurements, same concern
India’s Central Pollution Control Board recorded an air-quality index of 403, considered severe under the Indian scale. The two figures should not be compared as though they were generated using identical methods: monitoring providers use different criteria and calculation systems. Both pointed to unhealthy conditions affecting a densely populated urban area.
Why winter smog returns
Northern India and neighbouring Pakistan often experience dangerous air pollution during colder months. Weather conditions can trap emissions from vehicles and industry, construction dust and smoke from agricultural burning closer to the ground. These sources interact with temperature and wind changes, making daily levels unpredictable and sometimes very high.
Public-health implications
Heavy pollution can aggravate breathing problems and affect children, older adults and people with existing respiratory or heart conditions. Public-health authorities typically advise checking local alerts, limiting unnecessary prolonged outdoor exertion during severe episodes and following official guidance. Long-term improvements require emission controls, cleaner transport and coordinated policies across neighbouring regions.
Sources and editorial note
This independent report is based on the source linked below. Details reflect information available on 13 November 2026. The featured image is illustrative or archival and does not necessarily show the reported event.
