Delhi Pollution: The AQI in Real-Time on Google Maps – A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Unquestionably, the air quality in Delhi and parts of North India continues to deteriorate, and moving outdoors without checking pollution levels is a health risk. Daily commuting to and from the office and the school run as well as evening walks, knowing the real-time Air Quality Index (AQI) can help you make safer decisions.

Google Maps, on the other hand, provides a rapid and trustworthy tool to keep track of the ongoing AQI levels in your locality while authorities are looking for long-term solutions. The filth levels in your area can be determined just with a few taps and therefore, your trip can be planned accordingly. Here is an easy-to-follow, user-friendly guide for you to check the AQI through Google Maps.

How to Check Real-Time AQI on Google Maps

Method 1: Using the Layers Option

Open Google Maps on your Android device or iPhone.

Then, tap on the Layers icon (two or more squares) located below your profile picture.

Next, from the options that are given, choose Air Quality.

Now, the map will indicate locations with AQI levels and the colours will be used to signify the levels of pollutant.

Method 2: Checking AQI through Weather Section

First, open Google Maps and click on the Explore tab on the home page.

After that, check for the Weather and AQI symbol (usually showing the temperature and “AQI”).

Then, click on it to see the weather information for your area.

Finally, go down the page and click on Air Quality to view the pollution levels around you in real-time.

What Do the Colours on Google Maps AQI Mean?

Google Maps employs a green-to-red colour spectrum spanning 0 to 500 to demonstrate air quality levels:

Green (0–100): clean, generally safe

Yellow to Orange (101–300): pollution levels at tolerable but variable; groups susceptible must keep an eye on it

Red (301–500): extremely poor quality, do not go outside at all

A deep red screen should tell you to put on a mask, limit going outside, or delay traveling if possible.

Essential Information

AQI information on Google Maps is refreshed every few minutes.

Measurements emanate from nearby monitoring stations, which depict a realistically localized area.

The map view illustrates the different pollution levels and hence makes it easier for users to understand the different areas.

Being informed is the first thing one should do to be safe. Always check the AQI on Google Maps before stepping out—it is a small gesture but it can really make a difference to your health.