New Delhi: Air quality across the national capital deteriorated on Monday morning, with pollution levels crossing into the ‘poor’ category, according to official data. The Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 206 at around 7 am, indicating a noticeable decline from Sunday’s ‘moderate’ reading.
Figures released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) showed that pollution levels had risen compared to the previous day, when the AQI was recorded below the 200 mark. The latest data reflects fluctuating air conditions over the past few days, with pollution levels hovering close to the threshold between ‘moderate’ and ‘poor’.
Weather conditions may have contributed to the worsening air quality. The India Meteorological Department reported misty conditions in the early hours, with temperatures around 10 degrees Celsius, high humidity levels near 97 per cent, and negligible wind movement. Such calm conditions often restrict the dispersion of pollutants, allowing them to accumulate near the surface.
Several parts of the city recorded significantly higher pollution levels. Areas such as Shadipur, Mundka and Nehru Nagar reported AQI readings in the upper ‘poor’ range, while Rohini, Bawana, Jahangirpuri and Wazirpur also saw elevated pollution levels. In contrast, central and southern parts of the capital fared relatively better, with locations like Sri Aurobindo Marg, Lodhi Road and the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium recording AQI levels in the ‘satisfactory’ to lower ‘moderate’ range.
The AQI scale classifies air quality from ‘good’ to ‘severe’ based on pollutant concentration, with readings above 200 considered harmful, particularly for sensitive groups such as children, the elderly and those with respiratory ailments.
On Sunday, pollution levels were already edging upward in many areas, with several monitoring stations reporting AQI values close to the ‘poor’ threshold. Environmental experts have cautioned that without stronger winds or weather changes, air quality in Delhi may continue to fluctuate in the coming days.
Health officials advise residents to limit prolonged outdoor activity during peak pollution hours and to take precautions if symptoms such as coughing or breathlessness occur.
