Residents of Delhi-NCR are facing ongoing challenges with poor air quality as slow wind speeds have once again led to pollution levels categorized as ‘poor’. The Air Quality Index (AQI) on Monday morning was at 214, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). This follows a similar situation on Sunday when the AQI was recorded at 221, slipping into the ‘poor’ category.
Several monitoring stations in Delhi reported high AQI levels on Monday morning, with areas like Anand Vihar, Ashok Vihar, and Burari Crossing showing significant pollution levels. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath recently compared Delhi’s air quality to a ‘gas chamber’, contrasting it with the cleaner environment in his state. Weather conditions may offer some relief in the coming days, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting rain and thunderstorms over parts of northern India.
The national capital has experienced warmer temperatures than usual in the first half of February, with the average maximum temperature recorded between February 1 and 15 standing at 25 degrees Celsius. Despite predictions of an active western disturbance, a significant temperature drop is unlikely, with temperatures expected to rise gradually. Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 28.5 degrees Celsius on Sunday, well above the normal range for this time of year.
The IMD has indicated a possibility of isolated drizzles in Delhi due to a feeble western disturbance, which may lead to a brief marginal temperature drop. However, temperatures are likely to hover around 28 degrees Celsius by the weekend, with a return to higher temperatures expected after February 19.
