Delhi’s air quality worsened over the weekend, slipping back into the ‘very poor’ and ‘severe’ pollution categories after some improvement earlier in the week. Thick smog engulfed large parts of the city during the morning, leading to reduced visibility and discomfort for residents. Data from the Central Pollution Control Board revealed significant variations in air quality levels across different areas.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Dhaula Kuan was measured at 252, categorizing it as ‘poor’. However, pollution levels were much higher in Akshardham and Anand Vihar, with AQI reaching 410, placing both regions in the ‘severe’ category. The ITO stretch also experienced alarming pollution levels, registering an AQI of 379, falling under the ‘very poor’ classification.
Overall, Delhi witnessed a noticeable decline in air quality, with a 24-hour average AQI of 332 at 4 p.m. on Friday, a significant increase from the 234 recorded on Thursday. Meteorological experts linked the rise in pollution to calm wind conditions associated with an approaching western disturbance.
The India Meteorological Department highlighted that low wind speeds in the early morning hindered the dispersion of pollutants, only briefly picking up to around 10 kmph from the southwest later in the day. Experts warned that pollution levels might remain high in the upcoming days due to expected western disturbances affecting the region.
Given the current scenario, the weather department issued a yellow alert, cautioning about moderate to dense fog in Delhi and nearby areas. The minimum temperature in the capital was forecasted to range between 6 and 8 degrees Celsius on Saturday, potentially dropping further to 5-7 degrees Celsius on Sunday. These conditions could exacerbate smog and deteriorate air quality.
