Delhi's 9,211 Respiratory Fatalities Highlight India's Air Pollution Failure

The Delhi Statistical Handbook 2025, published on January 8, 2026, by the Directorate of Economics & Statistics and the Office of the Chief Registrar of the Government of NCT of Delhi, reveals a concerning increase in respiratory-related fatalities in recent years.

The updated handbook highlights the growing health burden from conditions such as asthma, pneumonia, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, which are risks for residents and visitors in 2026.

In 2024, Delhi recorded 9,211 deaths from respiratory diseases, an increase from 8,801 in 2023 and 7,432 in 2022.

Additionally, overall mortality in the capital rose to 139,480 deaths in 2024, up from 132,391 in 2023.

Local health experts attribute the severe air pollution in Delhi to factors including vehicular emissions, industrial activity, construction dust, and seasonal stubble burning.

These advocates call for immediate measures, such as improved public transport, stricter regulations, and enhanced regional cooperation, to prevent further loss of life in or around Delhi.

According to data from India's Ministry of Tourism, Delhi remains a very popular destination. There were about 39 million domestic visitors and around 1.8 million international visitors in 2023.

As of January 16, 2026, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has not issued a Travel Health Notice focused on Delhi's air pollution. But the CDC has identified several health risks and vaccination recommendations for travelers to India.

The CDC advises future visitors to India speak with a travel vaccine expert about immunization options.