New Delhi: Delhi witnessed a modest improvement in air quality on Wednesday morning, though pollution levels continued to remain alarmingly high. According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the city’s overall Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 339 at around 9 am, placing it firmly in the “very poor” category.
This marked a slight dip from Tuesday morning, when the capital had reported an AQI of 395. Despite the marginal relief, air conditions across most parts of the city remained unhealthy.
Data from the CPCB’s Sameer app showed that out of the monitoring stations reporting pollution levels, 30 were in the “very poor” range, while eight stations registered “poor” air quality. Jahangirpuri emerged as the most polluted area, recording an AQI of 390.
Under CPCB standards, AQI readings between 301 and 400 fall in the “very poor” category, which can cause respiratory discomfort to people on prolonged exposure, especially those with existing health conditions.
Weather conditions did little to aid dispersion of pollutants. The city experienced a chilly morning, with the minimum temperature settling at 7.2 degrees Celsius. Several areas reported similar lows, including Palam at 8.8 degrees Celsius, Ridge at 9 degrees Celsius, Ayanagar at 8 degrees Celsius and Lodhi Road at 7.6 degrees Celsius. Safdarjung recorded the lowest temperature of the day.
The India Meteorological Department has forecast a maximum temperature of around 24 degrees Celsius, with moderate fog expected during the day. Experts say stagnant weather conditions and fog often trap pollutants close to the surface, prolonging poor air quality levels.
Authorities have urged residents, particularly children, the elderly and those with respiratory ailments, to limit outdoor activities as pollution levels remain a cause for concern.
