Delhi’s Pollution Worsens Again As AQI Nears ‘Severe’ Mark Amid Intensifying Cold Wave

Delhi witnessed another alarming spike in air pollution on Friday, with the Air Quality Index climbing to 385, edging dangerously close to the ‘severe’ category.

The capital and the surrounding NCR region remained enveloped in heavy smog, offering little relief to residents already facing harsh winter conditions.

The latest deterioration comes just a day after GRAP Stage-III restrictions were withdrawn. These curbs, aimed at addressing severe pollution, had been briefly eased, but the improvement proved short-lived as toxic air returned swiftly. The city’s AQI rose sharply from 327 on Wednesday to 377 on Thursday, signalling a rapid decline in air quality.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) stated that it would reintroduce Stage-III restrictions only if the AQI crosses 400.

Officials noted that they are closely tracking developments but will refrain from imposing stricter measures until pollution reaches the “severe” threshold.

Stagnant Winds and Winter Conditions Fuel the Decline

Data from the Central Pollution Control Board showed that pollution levels rose steadily throughout Thursday. The AQI, recorded at 351 at 8 AM, climbed to 381 by 7 PM, indicating sustained accumulation of pollutants over the region.

Meteorologists attributed this surge to almost stagnant winds throughout the day. Wind speeds hovered around 4–5 kmph, far too weak to disperse particulate matter. Weather forecasts suggest that the capital is likely to remain in the “very poor” category for the next few days.

The ongoing cold wave is further intensifying the crisis. Minimum temperatures across Delhi-NCR dropped to between 8 and 12 degrees Celsius, with a persistent layer of fog and haze reducing visibility on major roads. Commuters reported slower traffic movement as visibility deteriorated during both morning and evening hours.

Health experts have cautioned that prolonged exposure to such polluted air can have severe effects, especially on children, the elderly, and those with respiratory or cardiac ailments. They advise residents to limit outdoor activity, avoid high-exertion tasks, and step outside only when necessary.

As the capital grapples with both plummeting temperatures and worsening air quality, concerns continue to mount over the combined impact on public health in the days ahead.

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