"Poor air quality in the area is common in November and December, with historical fine particulate air quality numbers spiking to nearly 300 parts per million (ppm) annually since 2015. Winter-time inversions lead to the buildup of pollutants around the New Delhi area, which has a population of over 30 million people. Several factors combine to increase the number of pollutants in the air, including farmers burning their fields in preparation for the spring."
"In the days leading up to the cancellation announcement, the Air Quality Index in New Delhi was 370 ppm, which is well within the range considered severe. The IAU said, "While we recognize the significant effort and preparation invested by athletes, coaches, and federations, the health and safety of all participants must remain our highest priority." National teams will be allowed to change their teams until December 21."
On November 22, 2025, the International Association of Ultrarunners postponed the 2025 IAU 50k World Championships originally set for December 7 in New Delhi. A new date has not been set, and the IAU will announce one within a week. The decision followed discussions with the Athletics Federation of India and the local organizing committee and appears linked to worsening air quality. Authorities have advised canceling outdoor activities at schools for one to two months. New Delhi experiences November–December pollution spikes, with particulate levels often near 300 ppm and recent AQI at 370 ppm. National teams may change entries until December 21.
Read at iRunFar
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