New Delhi: Early winter air pollution, from Oct to mid-Nov, has worsened in 2026 and emergency traffic curbs put in place by govt are not easing congestion, according to a new Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) analysis.
CSE said Delhi’s pre-winter pollution this year was generally higher than in 2025, except for a brief late-Sept drop caused by rain.
Furthermore, emergency restrictions barring pre-BS VI vehicles have failed to significantly reduce traffic volumes,” said Anumita Roychowdhury, executive director, Research and Advocacy, CSE. “Among local sources, transport remains the largest contributor. severe pollution episodes continued even when farm fire contributions dropped While the share of stubble smoke rose during this period. Traffic congestion analysis confirms that vehicular emissions heavily drive daily toxic exposure.
both weekend days under restrictions fell 8% below baseline While Saturday (Oct 31 – pre-curbs) surged 22% above routine weekend traffic (and 37% in the evening). Sunday (Nov 1) reflected the direct impact of the diesel truck entry ban with offices shut, while Saturday, Nov 7 (Chhoti Diwali) saw residents staying indoors or travelling out of the city. CSE found nearly 80% of NO2 is emitted by vehicles.
By contrast, weekends saw traffic drop, though driven only partly by vehicle rules. As vehicular pollution remains the top local source, evening gridlock traps toxic NO2 (nitrogen dioxide), the marker of vehicular pollution, until midnight.