Light Rains Bring Limited Improvement To Delhi-NCR Air Quality

Delhi-NCR witnessed marginal relief in air pollution levels on Wednesday morning following moderate rainfall a day earlier, though overall air quality continued to remain a concern across the region.

Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) showed the city’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) at 273 around 7 AM, placing it in the ‘poor’ category. Despite the slight improvement, dense smog persisted in several areas, indicating that pollution levels are still elevated.

Area-wise readings revealed uneven air quality across the national capital. Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 280, categorised as ‘poor’, while Patpadganj reported a higher AQI of 304, falling into the ‘very poor’ bracket. Other locations also continued to struggle with deteriorated conditions.

Ashok Vihar registered an AQI of 323, Bawana reported 332, and Chandni Chowk logged 340, all indicating ‘very poor’ air quality. Dwarka Sector 8 and Mundka also remained affected, with AQI levels of 317 and 323, respectively.

Weather Conditions and Temperature Outlook

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast generally cloudy skies for the capital, along with shallow fog during early morning hours. Maximum temperatures will hover between 17 and 19 degrees Celsius, while minimum temperatures will range from 11 to 13 degrees Celsius.

Similar conditions are likely across neighbouring regions. Noida may experience mist or fog in the early hours, while Gurugram will see comparatively clearer skies during the day.

On Tuesday, widespread rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds swept across Delhi-NCR. Palam recorded 3.4 mm of rainfall, Ridge received 3.0 mm, and Pitampura logged 2.0 mm between 8.30 AM and 11.30 AM.

Looking ahead, the IMD has predicted cloudy skies with one or two spells of rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds of 30–40 kmph in New Delhi on February 1. Gurugram may see intermittent rain on February 1 and 2, while Noida is likely to experience light rainfall on February 2.

Also Read: Rain Alert Issued As Air Quality Declines Again In Delhi-NCR