Is Delhi's Air Quality Slipping Back to 'Very Poor' Levels?
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Synopsis
As Delhi grapples with persistent air quality issues, the city’s AQI has fallen to 285, teetering dangerously close to the 'very poor' threshold of 301. This ongoing struggle with pollution raises concerns about health and safety for residents. What does the future hold for Delhi's air quality?
Key Takeaways
- The air quality in Delhi has remained poor for three days.
- The current AQI is at 285, nearing the 'very poor' threshold.
- Ten monitoring stations report AQI levels above 300.
- Temperature in Delhi has dipped slightly below average.
- IMD predicts stable temperatures in the coming days.
New Delhi, Dec 11 (NationPress) The air quality in Delhi has remained entrenched in the poor category for the third consecutive day as of Thursday morning. According to the latest data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the overall air quality index (AQI) has further dipped to 285, just shy of the 301 mark that would classify the conditions as very poor.
As of 7 a.m., at least ten monitoring stations throughout the city reported AQI levels exceeding 300, which categorizes them as very poor. Notable figures include Anand Vihar at 300, Ashok Vihar at 328, Chandni Chowk at 305, and ITO at 309.
In Noida, the overall AQI registered at 294 (Poor), with sector-specific readings ranging from 246 to 331. Greater Noida's Knowledge Parks 3 and 5 recorded AQI values of 235 and 331, respectively.
On Wednesday, the city’s 24-hour average AQI was noted at 259, reflecting a minor improvement from Tuesday's 282. After nine straight days of air quality plunging into the very poor zone, some relief was observed on Tuesday, attributed to stronger daytime winds on Wednesday that maintained conditions within the poor category for the second day.
The CPCB defines AQI ranges as follows: 0-50 (Good), 51-100 (Satisfactory), 101-200 (Moderate), 201-300 (Poor), 301-400 (Very Poor), and 401-500 (Severe).
In addition to air quality fluctuations, the city also experienced a slight drop in temperatures. Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 10 degrees Celsius on Wednesday, which is 0.4 degrees below the seasonal average, while the maximum temperature reached 25.2 degrees Celsius, also 0.4 degrees below normal.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts that minimum temperatures across northwest India, including Delhi and surrounding NCR cities like Noida, Gurugram, and Faridabad, are expected to remain stable for the next two days before rising by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius over the subsequent three days, with conditions stabilizing afterward.
For Thursday, the IMD anticipates partly foggy conditions, with minimum temperatures expected around 8 degrees Celsius and maximum temperatures near 24 degrees Celsius.
Point of View
It’s imperative to address the ongoing air quality dilemma in Delhi. While fluctuations are expected, consistent reports of 'poor' air quality highlight a pressing public health issue. As we monitor these developments, our commitment is to provide accurate information and raise awareness about air quality challenges facing our cities.
NationPress
12/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current air quality index (AQI) in Delhi?
As of December 11, the AQI in Delhi is reported at 285, which is categorized as poor.
What are the health implications of poor air quality?
Poor air quality can lead to respiratory issues, cardiovascular diseases, and overall deterioration of health, especially for vulnerable populations.
How does the CPCB classify air quality levels?
The CPCB classifies AQI as follows: 0-50 (Good), 51-100 (Satisfactory), 101-200 (Moderate), 201-300 (Poor), 301-400 (Very Poor), 401-500 (Severe).
What can residents do to protect themselves from poor air quality?
Residents should limit outdoor activities, use air purifiers at home, and consider wearing masks when pollution levels are high.
Will temperatures in Delhi rise soon?
Yes, the IMD forecasts a rise in minimum temperatures by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius over the next few days.
