Campus AQI Approaches ‘Very Poor’ 300 level, Days After Admin Refuses Online Classes

Following the administration’s decision to reject online classes, an email sent by the Campus Life Ministry (CLM) on October 23rd mentioned that, based on past trends, the administration anticipates that “the air quality will naturally improve in the coming days.”

However, ten days later, on Saturday, 1st November, 2025, Ashoka’s Air Quality Index (AQI) surged to 291 at 11:00 am. This is the highest recorded level in the University this year, since January 15th, 2025, which observed an AQI recording of 385.

Rajiv Gandhi Education City has consistently observed an AQI above 200 since October 24th. AQI levels between 200-300 are considered “poor” according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) while levels from 301-400 are considered “very poor”. 

The air quality has affected visibility on campus. Students also share ongoing health concerns, including difficulty breathing and nausea. 

*Vikram Patel [UG’29] tells The Edict that he has been facing health issues such as coughing due to the air pollution. “It’s scary how visible the dust and pollution have become in the air lately, many of my friends have been falling sick.” 

*A Pseudonym has been used to protect the anonymity of the individual.

*The Edict reached out to Vice President of Operations Himanshu Sachdev for a comment. He was unavailable at the time of publication. This article will be updated when a response is received.

[Data verified by Tanisha Pandey]

[Edited by Tanisha Pandey]