Even as airstrikes and burning oil facilities send thick plumes of smoke over Tehran, recent air quality readings show the Iranian capital recording cleaner air than New Delhi.

The unexpected comparison has drawn attention to the long-standing pollution crisis in India’s capital, where air quality often remains poor despite the absence of wartime environmental damage. Data from recent air quality monitoring shows that Tehran’s Air Quality Index (AQI) has remained in the “good to moderate” range, while New Delhi’s AQI has frequently stayed in the “poor to unhealthy” category.

Tehran’s AQI remains moderate amid strikes

According to Wio News, since late February, multiple airstrikes have targeted oil depots and fuel facilities around Tehran, triggering massive fires and releasing thick black smoke into the atmosphere. Residents have reported dark skies, the smell of burning fuel and even “black rain” caused by pollutants mixing with rainfall.

Despite these dramatic scenes, air quality measurements in Tehran have often ranged between 33 and 70 AQI, which falls within the good to moderate categories. On some days during the conflict, Tehran’s AQI reportedly stayed around 33–42, indicating relatively cleaner air conditions compared with many major cities. Health experts and environmental agencies have nevertheless warned that smoke from burning oil facilities contains dangerous pollutants such as hydrocarbons, sulphur compounds and nitrogen oxides. These substances can cause respiratory problems and other health risks for residents exposed to the toxic air.

Also Read | Israel urges UN Security Council to label Iran's IRGC a 'terrorist organisation'

Delhi’s persistent pollution problem

In contrast, New Delhi has continued to record significantly higher pollution levels. The city’s AQI frequently rises above 150–200, placing it in the poor to unhealthy category on many days. Environmental experts attribute Delhi’s persistent pollution to a combination of factors, including vehicle emissions, industrial activity, construction dust, and seasonal influences such as dust storms from the Thar Desert and neighbouring regions.

Also Read | No biryani or shahi paneer: LPG shortage forces Delhi High Court canteen to halt hot meals

The comparison between the two capitals highlights the scale of Delhi’s long-term air pollution crisis. While Tehran’s current environmental challenges are largely linked to conflict fires and industrial damage, Delhi’s pollution stems from ongoing urban and environmental pressures. The contrast has sparked debate among environmental observers, with many pointing out that if a city experiencing airstrikes and oil fires can sometimes record cleaner air, it underscores how serious the air quality challenge remains for New Delhi.