Delhi’s air quality remains ‘very poor’ for third straight day

A thick layer of smog blanketed Delhi for the third consecutive day on Tuesday, with air quality remaining in the “very poor” category, according to government data.

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) said Delhi’s overall Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 309, showing little improvement despite slightly stronger winds. Several areas, including Alipur (421), Jahangirpuri (404) and Wazirpur (404), recorded “severe” levels, where the air is considered hazardous even for healthy people.

Experts said pollution levels have risen steadily since Diwali celebrations on Oct. 20, as smoke from firecrackers, low wind speeds and falling temperatures trapped pollutants near the ground. The Air Quality Early Warning System (AQEWS) reported wind speeds below 8 km/h on Monday evening, limiting the dispersion of particulate matter.

Neighbouring cities in the National Capital Region also recorded poor air quality. Ghaziabad reported an AQI of 375 (very poor), while Noida and Greater Noida each recorded 329. Gurugram reported 218 (poor) and Faridabad (195) had the cleanest air in the region.

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The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said Delhi’s maximum temperature on Monday was 31.5°C and the minimum 17.9°C, both slightly above normal. Misty conditions are expected to continue through the week.

The Supreme Court has directed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to file an affidavit outlining past and upcoming measures to curb pollution. The court expressed concern over several air monitoring stations that were reportedly non-functional during Diwali.

Doctors have advised residents, particularly children and the elderly, to avoid prolonged outdoor exposure and to use N95 masks. Forecasts indicate that Delhi’s air quality is likely to remain “very poor” in the coming days, with little immediate relief expected.