Air Quality in Delhi Falls to 'Poor' Levels

Synopsis
New Delhi's air quality has deteriorated to the 'poor' category after a brief improvement. The Central Pollution Control Board reports an AQI of 242. As temperatures rise, the lingering winter chill remains evident, emphasizing the need for awareness about air pollution.
Key Takeaways
- Delhi's air quality has dropped to 'poor'.
- AQI recorded at 242 by CPCB.
- Maximum temperature reached 23.7°C.
- Regions like Bawana and Rohini show alarming AQI levels.
- Residents should stay alert to pollution and weather changes.
New Delhi, Jan 27 (NationPress) Following a brief period of moderate air quality, the air in the capital has once again declined, now categorized as 'poor'. As per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 6 am on Monday stood at 242.
Although the AQI shows some fluctuations, the weather is beginning to change, as temperatures rise and the chill of winter starts to recede.
The increasing temperatures are becoming apparent, with Sunday’s maximum temperature hitting 23.7 degrees Celsius, which is 1.6 degrees Celsius above the average for this period.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has reported a slight decrease of up to 1 degree Celsius in the minimum temperatures across Delhi and the NCR over the last 24 hours. Despite the rise in daytime temperatures, mornings and evenings still feel cool, indicating the lingering effects of winter.
The AQI in various regions of Delhi has shown alarming pollution levels, with areas such as Bawana (298), Jahangirpuri (297), and Rohini (284) recording significant figures. Regions like Wazirpur, Vivek Vihar, and Ashok Vihar are also facing AQI levels in the 'poor' category, escalating the city's air pollution crisis.
According to the IMD’s forecast, the day is expected to feature clear skies, although light mist may occur in the mornings. No specific weather alerts have been issued by IMD, but the gradual transition from winter to milder temperatures indicates the change of seasons.
With the air quality fluctuating and mild weather prevailing, residents of Delhi need to remain vigilant regarding pollution and the cooler mornings and nights. The weather is shifting from winter to warmer conditions, with daytime highs now between 21 degrees Celsius and 24 degrees Celsius, while nighttime temperatures stay cooler, between 7 to 8 degrees Celsius.
The upcoming days are anticipated to see the gradual disappearance of the cold spell, yet air quality continues to be a pressing concern for the city.