Despite above-normal rain, Delhi saw worst July air since 2022

Delhi recorded its worst July air quality since 2022, with a monthly average AQI of 117 (moderate), despite above-normal rainfall in July 2026.

The Safdarjung weather station recorded 261.52mm of rainfall in July 2026, exceeding the IMD's long-period average of 209.7mm for the month.

In July 2026, Delhi had one 'good' air day, 13 'satisfactory', 15 'moderate', and two 'poor' air days, according to CPCB data.

This compares to July 2025, when Delhi recorded 29 'satisfactory' and two 'moderate' air days, with a monthly average AQI of 79 (cleanest in at least 10 years).

The CPCB and CREA data show that the last time Delhi saw a 'good' air day in July before 2026 was in 2017.