As Delhi continues to reel under one of its worst pollution spells of the season, social media erupted on Sunday over the city’s decision to hold outdoor fitness events even as the Air Quality Index (AQI) soared beyond the “severe” mark of 400.

A viral post questioned the city’s priorities after videos surfaced showing actors Archana Puran Singh, Huma Qureshi, Shefali Shah, and Sunil Grover flagging off the *Sekhon IAF Marathon 2025* from Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. “Marathon in 400 AQI. At least worry a bit about our country’s image in the world. Doing such stunts is not useful for anyone. Who allows such things to happen? Where is our conscience?” the post read, echoing the frustration of many residents.

Several users on X (formerly Twitter) criticized the decision to hold the event amid toxic air. “As a marathoner, I concur this is hazardous. Running outdoors in Delhi-NCR right now is not advisable — cold, cough, and fever will be the immediate aftereffects,” one user wrote. Another asked, “Where is our intelligence and what happened to GRAP?” referring to the Graded Response Action Plan implemented to combat pollution.

The criticism wasn’t limited to the marathon. Over the weekend, Delhi also hosted a ‘Cyclothon’ at the Punjab National Bank head office in Dwarka as part of Vigilance Awareness Week 2025, and another event under the Union Sports Ministry’s *Fit India Sunday on Cycle* initiative. While these programs were intended to promote health and sustainability, many pointed out the irony of encouraging physical activity outdoors when simply breathing the city’s air poses serious health risks.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s overall AQI remained in the “very poor” category on Sunday, with several monitoring stations recording “severe” levels. Wazirpur topped the charts with an AQI of 439, while over 20 stations reported readings above 300. Experts attributed the deteriorating air to low wind speeds and stagnant atmospheric conditions, which are preventing pollutants from dispersing.

Environmental specialists have warned that the air quality is likely to remain “very poor” until at least November 4. Meanwhile, residents continue to grapple with sore throats, watery eyes, and breathing difficulties, even as questions grow louder over whether the authorities — and the public — are doing enough to take Delhi’s toxic air crisis seriously.