Jonty Rhodes of South Africa spoke out against the growing air pollution in New Delhi, gaining much attention. Taking a route via Delhi to Ranchi, Rhodes wrote that it’s tough to digest the low levels of air quality in the capital and added how thankful he is to live in a small fishing village in South Goa.
He followed that up with a contrasting image of the clear skies of Goa and his children playing outdoors, saying in Delhi, people are advised to stay indoors due to hazardous conditions. The post received hundreds of reactions as many users echoed his concern and demanded stricter action against pollution.
How Bad Is the Air Quality in Delhi Right Now?
The timing of Rhodes’ comments comes amidst a sharp rise in pollution levels in the Delhi-NCR region. In several parts of the city, the Air Quality Index has crossed the 400 mark, entering the “severe” category. Though there has been a slight improvement, with readings dropping marginally from the previous day, the air remains unsafe to breathe.
Monitoring stations in northern and central parts of Delhi reported AQI readings above 350, indicating that the air continues to pose significant health risks for children, the elderly, and people with respiratory conditions.
Why Jonty Rhodes’ Message Resonated?
Rhodes’ post went viral for two reasons: one, it showed even the most celebrated athletes and public figures are disturbed by unsafe urban conditions that are a regular affair; secondly, it underlined the height of irony-a clear, outdoors-friendly environment versus smog-choked skies-hence making the issue so relatable and urgent to the residents.
Passing through Delhi en route to Ranchi this evening, and as always, it’s hard to digest the low levels of air quality here. Am grateful to be living in a small fishing village in South Goa ##AQI #whats2Bdone pic.twitter.com/3ctZELJmRN
— Jonty Rhodes (@JontyRhodes8) November 9, 2025
The post became a catalyst for public debate as social media users shared their own experiences struggling with smog, clogged air purifiers, and limited outdoor activities. Many did not hide their frustration over the lack of consistent and long-term measures to control pollution in the capital.
What Are Authorities Saying?
At the same time, the Commission for Air Quality Management said there is no need to invoke Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan at this moment.
The government attributed this to the slight reduction in daily average AQI values and a forecast that the air is expected to remain in the “very poor” category for the next few days. Action under Stages 1 and 2 of GRAP are still in effect across the National Capital Region to help manage pollution.
