Delhi’s air quality is slipping toward the poor category. The city’s Air Quality Index reached 195 on Sunday, just short of the 200 mark that triggers emergency curbs.

If the AQI crosses 200, the Graded Response Action Plan stage 1 will be implemented. The plan brings dust-control and emission measures across the capital region.

Several hotspots are already in the poor zone. Mundka recorded 281, while Chandni Chowk logged 217 and the Delhi airport’s Terminal 3 touched 204, according to Central Pollution Control Board data.

This is Delhi’s most polluted start to October in four years. News18 reported the average AQI at 166 on October 1, after a relatively clean September.

Weather forecasts show no immediate rain, which could push pollution higher in the coming days. The air quality tends to worsen further as winter sets in, and authorities say they are watching the readings closely.

Officials have asked residents to limit outdoor activity during morning and evening hours. Dust-control measures at construction sites will be enforced strictly, and water sprinkling on major roads will be stepped up.