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Delhi’s overall AQI stays in the ‘poor’ category, but several monitoring stations report ‘moderate’ air quality. Check latest pollution levels across the city.
Delhi records AQI of 233, remaining in the ‘poor’ category for the second day.
New Delhi: Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) stayed in the ‘poor’ category for the second straight day on Saturday, with a reading of 233, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). While this is a slight increase from Friday’s 218, it is significantly lower than Thursday’s 373, which marked one of the worst air quality readings in three years.
Data from the CPCB’s Sameer app showed that air quality across the city fluctuated between ‘moderate’ and ‘poor,’ with Wazirpur in North Delhi emerging as the most polluted area, recording an AQI of 323, categorized as ‘very poor.’ Other areas including Anand Vihar (285), Punjabi Bagh (256), Bawana (294), Ashok Vihar (282), and RK Puram (284) fell under the ‘poor’ category, while Pusa (185), Lodhi Road (177), IGI Airport T3 (175), Mathura Road (158), and Dr Karni Singh Shooting Range (197) were rated ‘moderate.’
Some Areas See Improvement
While pollution remains high in several parts of Delhi, certain areas have shown improvement. Locations such as Pusa, Lodhi Road, and IGI Airport T3 are reporting moderate AQI readings, indicating better air quality conditions compared to the extremely high levels experienced earlier in the week. Experts suggest that favorable wind patterns and temporary reductions in local emissions have contributed to these improvements.
Patna Weather Today: Mild heat, low clouds, and calm winds; Will rain disrupt weekend plans?
Will It Rain Today?
Weather forecasts indicate that Delhi will experience clear skies today, with minimum and maximum temperatures hovering around 19°C and 31°C, respectively. Humidity levels remain high at 82%, but no significant rainfall is expected in the immediate term, leaving pollution levels a primary concern for residents.
Clothing, Sunscreen, and Hydration Tips
With moderate daytime temperatures but rising pollution, experts recommend light, breathable clothing to stay comfortable. Applying sunscreen is essential during daylight hours, while staying hydrated helps counteract the drying effects of air pollution on the respiratory system. Masks can provide additional protection against particulate matter, particularly for children, elderly, and individuals with respiratory issues.
Vehicle Restrictions to Curb Pollution
Starting November 1, commercial goods vehicles that do not meet at least BS-IV emission standards have been banned from entering Delhi. BS-III vehicles will no longer be allowed, while BS-VI diesel, BS-IV diesel, CNG, LNG, and electric vehicles can continue to operate without restriction. Enforcement teams from the Transport Department and Delhi Traffic Police will monitor compliance across the city.
Air Quality Shows Long-Term Improvement
Despite recent dips, Delhi has recorded its best air quality from January to October this year in eight years, excluding the 2020 lockdown. The average AQI for this period was 170, improving from 184 in 2024. Notably, there were no ‘severe’ air quality days (AQI above 400) during this period, a first since 2018. The city also witnessed 79 ‘satisfactory’ AQI days, marking a significant improvement over previous years.
Festive Season Impacts
Experts warn that the post-Diwali period continues to affect air quality as firecracker residue, vehicular emissions, and construction dust combine with seasonal weather conditions. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity, use air purifiers, and follow government guidelines on pollution mitigation during this period.
