Delhi Breaths Easier After Rainfall & Strong Winds Reduce Pollution

Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) witnessed a significant improvement in air quality over the weekend, following rainfall and gusty north-westerly winds that helped disperse accumulated pollutants lingering over the region.

The capital received its highest single-day rainfall in January in three years, which, combined with strong winds, cleared the toxic smog that had persisted for weeks.

On Sunday morning, Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) settled at 152, entering the ‘moderate’ category for the first time in several weeks, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board’s (CPCB) SAMEER app at 6.05 AM.

Earlier on Saturday, the 24-hour average AQI was recorded at 192 around 4 PM, also categorised as ‘moderate’.

By 10 PM, as winds strengthened across the plains, air quality further improved with the AQI dropping to 163.

Most monitoring stations across the capital reported moderate levels, though a few pockets continued to register ‘poor’ readings.

NSIT Dwarka was the only area to record an AQI below 100, indicating relatively cleaner air.

Authorities attributed the improvement to the combined effects of rainfall and strong winds sweeping across the Indo-Gangetic plains.

Meanwhile, cold wave conditions have returned to parts of North India, including Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast minimum temperatures in the capital to remain between 4 and 6°C, with daytime highs likely settling between 18 and 21°C.

The IMD has also issued a yellow alert for rain and thunderstorms, cautioning that pollution levels could rise again once dry weather returns.

While the weekend weather provided temporary relief, officials emphasised that continued monitoring and sustained pollution control measures are essential to maintain cleaner air in the long term.

Also Read: Delhi-NCR Air Quality Improves After Season’s First Rainfall