Delhi Air Quality Index Capped at 500 Amid Higher Pollution Readings Post-Diwali
Delhi's air pollution surged sharply after Diwali, with private platforms reporting Air Quality Index (AQI) readings exceeding 1,000, while the official Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) capped AQI at 500 due to its measurement methodology. CPCB's instruments, calibrated for particulate matter up to 1,000 micrograms per cubic metre, exclude higher readings from AQI calculations, causing data gaps and lower official values. Experts urge revising this approach to include peak pollution data for accurate public information and health assessments.
First-hand measurement across 15 sources
We measured how 15 outlets covered this story. No outlet gave this story a measurable political slant — there is no left–right reading to report. Overall sentiment is neutral (44/100). Lens Score 57/100.
Outlets measured: hindustantimes, thehindu, hindustantimes, freepressjournal, scrollin, businessstandard, httpswwwoutlookindiacom, firstpost, and 7 more. See how each one headlined and framed the same story in the source comparison below.
AI Analysis
Sentiment was consistent across outlets (32–52/100), indicating broadly factual reporting rather than editorialising.
Coverage timeline
mint broke this story on 11 Nov, 03:48 am. Other outlets followed.