Delhi’s Air Quality Worsens; Returns To ‘Very Poor’ Zone

Delhi’s air quality deteriorated once again on Tuesday, slipping back into the ‘very poor’ category after offering only a brief improvement over the past two days.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the city recorded an AQI of 331 at 6 AM, indicating a renewed rise in pollution levels as winter conditions deepen.

Several major monitoring stations reported even higher concentrations of particulate matter.

Bawana registered an alarming AQI of 387, followed closely by Anand Vihar at 381, Wazirpur at 362, Burari at 361, and RK Puram at 356 — all falling squarely within the ‘very poor’ classification.

The Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport area remained comparatively better, though its AQI of 269 still placed it in the ‘poor’ category.

Under CPCB standards, an AQI of 0–50 is considered ‘good’, 51–100 ‘satisfactory’, 101–200 ‘moderate’, 201–300 ‘poor’, 301–400 ‘very poor’, and 401–500 ‘severe’.

Smog and Fog Grip the Capital

A visible blanket of smog and fog covered key parts of the capital on Tuesday morning.

At India Gate–Kartavya Path, the AQI hovered around 370, firmly in the ‘very poor’ zone.

Conditions were equally worrying at MB Road in Tughlakabad, where the AQI stood at 302, triggering concern among residents.

Residents expressed frustration over worsening air quality, citing its impact on daily life and health.

One local resident said, “The pollution has become extremely dangerous for both children and the elderly. Earlier, we used to step out at 5 AM, but now we have to wait until 7 AM. Our eyes burn, and we are constantly coughing. The government should take stronger action. Water sprinkling is insufficient, and vehicles are still running. More frequent sprinkling is urgently needed.”

Delhi had recorded marginally better air quality earlier in the week, with AQIs of 279 on Sunday and 298 on Monday.

However, the respite proved short-lived as pollution levels spiked again amid cold, stagnant conditions.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast a maximum temperature of around 26°C and a minimum of about 7°C for Tuesday.

The drop in temperatures, combined with calm winds, has contributed to the accumulation of pollutants in the lower atmosphere, exacerbating already poor air quality.

Also Read: Delhi Air Quality Worsens Again As AQI Crosses 300 Mark