Delhi-NCR air quality remains in ‘very poor’ levels, AQI crosses 350-mark in Anand Vihar, Bawana, Jahangirpuri; Check area-wise pollution levels
Delhi’s air quality has fallen to the ‘very poor’ category, with the AQI reaching 292 as vehicular emissions and pollution from NCR regions increase. Weak winds limited distribution and AQI levels were recorded above 300 in many areas, raising health concerns.
After showing brief signs of improvement earlier in the week, Delhi’s air quality deteriorated again on Friday, returning to the ‘very poor’ category. Rising emissions from vehicles and pollution from neighboring National Capital Region (NCR) areas continue to negatively impact the capital’s atmosphere, negating the brief relief experienced in the last two days.
AQI Levels Exceed Alarm Thresholds
According to data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 292 at 8 am. This reading placed the city firmly in the ‘very poor’ category. More than half of the 39 monitoring stations in the capital reported AQI levels exceeding 300, indicating unhealthy weather conditions for residents.
Various areas have emerged as pollution hotspots. Anand Vihar topped the list with an AQI of 377, followed by Jahangirpuri, Bawana and Ashok Vihar. Elsewhere, air quality was recorded to range from “poor” to “fair”. According to CPCB standards, AQI values between 301 and 400 are classified as ‘very poor’, while levels above 401 are considered ‘severe’.
Vehicles and NCR Regions Increase Pollution Burden
Analysis from the Air Quality Management Decision Support System (DSS) highlighted that vehicle emissions remain the major source of pollution in Delhi, contributing around one-fifth of the total burden. Industrial activities in Delhi and surrounding areas contributed a significant share, while construction works and waste incineration contributed a smaller but significant share.
Pollution from NCR regions has worsened the situation. Jhajjar in Haryana was identified as the largest external contributor, followed by Rohtak and Sonipat. These neighboring areas continue to impact Delhi’s air quality, especially during periods of adverse weather conditions.
Weather Provides Little Help
Meteorological conditions do not support the distribution of pollutants. Weak winds from the northwest, reaching speeds of only 10 km per hour in the afternoon hours, limited the removal of suspended particles. The Air Quality Early Warning System stated that such conditions could cause pollution levels to persist or worsen in the coming days.
Temperatures also reflected seasonal changes. While the maximum temperature in the city was recorded slightly above normal, the minimum temperature fell slightly below average. Moderate fog is expected in the early morning hours; This can further reduce visibility and cause contaminants to become trapped near the surface.
December Sees Limited Clean Air Days
December has given Delhi residents very little time so far. This month has already seen many days with “poor” air quality, with none classed as “satisfactory”. Earlier this week, there was a serious pollution incident in the capital when AQI levels exceeded 400. Compared to last December, when air quality days were more balanced, this year continues to raise environmental concerns.
Residents may need to prepare for prolonged exposure to unhealthy air in the coming days, as forecasts indicate it will get worse.
