New Year’s Day Sees ‘Poor’ Air Quality In Delhi With AQI At 239

As Delhi ushered in the New Year, the city recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 239 at 8 AM on Wednesday, categorizing the air quality as ‘poor’.

A thick layer of fog enveloped the capital, reducing visibility amid chilly temperatures.

However, on Monday, Delhi saw a brief improvement in air quality, with AQI levels dipping into the ‘moderate’ range following significant rainfall over the weekend.

On 1 January, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported a minimum temperature of 8.05°C in Delhi, with the maximum expected to reach 17.98°C under clear skies.

Meanwhile, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) shared a positive development on social media, revealing that Delhi recorded its highest number of ‘Good to Moderate’ air quality days in 2024, with a total of 209 such days.

This achievement, excluding the pandemic-impacted year of 2020, marks steady progress in air quality management.

CAQM Highlights Record 209 Days Of ‘Good to Moderate’ Air Quality Index In 2024

In a press release, CAQM attributed this success to the collective efforts of various stakeholders throughout the year.

The statement stated, “The year witnessed a record 209 days with the AQI below 200, falling in the ‘Good to Moderate’ category. This is the highest since 2020 when strict lockdowns led to reduced anthropogenic activities.”

Despite adverse weather conditions, Delhi’s average AQI in 2024 ranked second best after 2020.

A major contributing factor to this improvement was the sharp decline in farm fires during the paddy harvesting season, which traditionally cause spikes in pollution levels.

The CAQM underscored the need for continued collaboration to sustain and enhance air quality.

Efforts to curb industrial, vehicular, and other emissions, alongside fewer farm fires, played a crucial role in this achievement.

This marked improvement in air quality signals Delhi’s ongoing commitment to battling pollution and improving the health of its residents, even amidst fluctuating weather patterns.

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