Delhi As Air Quality Slips Back to ‘Very Poor’, AQI at 355

Smog Returns to Delhi as Air Quality Slips Back to Very Poor Levels, AQI at 355 Triggers Fresh Health Concerns

Delhi woke up to another smog-filled morning on Saturday as air quality in the national capital deteriorated sharply, slipping back into the ‘very poor’ category. After showing brief signs of improvement earlier in the week, pollution levels surged once again, raising concerns for public health and daily life across the city.

According to data released by the Central Pollution Control Board, the Air Quality Index stood at 355 at 9 am, confirming that Delhi as air quality slips back into a dangerous zone. A thick layer of smog blanketed the city, reducing visibility and leaving residents coughing, wheezing, and experiencing eye irritation.

Several Areas Slip Into ‘Severe’ Category

While the overall AQI remained in the ‘very poor’ range, several parts of Delhi recorded ‘severe’ air quality levels early Saturday morning. These included Anand Vihar with an AQI of 410, Jahangirpuri at 414, Narela and Rohini at 406, and Shadipur at 408.

Such readings indicate air quality levels that pose serious health risks, especially to children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory or heart conditions. Doctors have advised residents to avoid outdoor activities and wear protective masks when stepping out.

Sharp Downward Trend in Air Quality

Data over the past 48 hours shows a clear deterioration in pollution levels. The city’s 24-hour average AQI reached 332 at 4 p.m. on Friday, a significant rise compared to 234 recorded on Thursday. This steep increase highlights how quickly air quality can worsen in Delhi under unfavorable weather conditions.

Just a day earlier, Delhi had recorded an AQI of 220, categorized as ‘poor’, with several areas falling into the ‘moderate’ range. That brief improvement had offered some relief to residents, but it proved short-lived.

Weather Conditions Behind the Pollution Spike

Meteorological officials have attributed the sudden rise in pollution to calm wind conditions linked to an approaching western disturbance. Low wind speeds prevent pollutants from dispersing, allowing emissions from vehicles, industries, construction activities, and stubble burning to accumulate near the surface.

Experts warn that such weather patterns are particularly dangerous during winter, when temperature inversions trap pollutants close to the ground, worsening smog conditions.

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GRAP-4 Revoked, But Situation Worsens Again

Earlier this week, the Delhi government revoked Stage Four of the Graded Response Action Plan after air quality showed improvement. The decision was taken by the GRAP Sub-Committee following a review of pollution data.

However, the latest readings suggest that the situation remains highly volatile. Environmental experts caution that temporary improvements should not be mistaken for long-term recovery, as pollution levels can rebound rapidly under unfavorable meteorological conditions.

Yellow Alert Issued as Fog Expected

In view of the worsening air quality and weather conditions, the weather department has issued a yellow alert for Delhi and adjoining areas. Authorities have warned of moderate to dense fog, especially during early morning and late-night hours over the weekend.

The India Meteorological Department has also cautioned that pollution levels may remain elevated in the coming days due to a series of western disturbances expected to affect north India.

Temperature Adds to Winter Pollution Woes

Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 7.7 degrees Celsius and a maximum of 22.3 degrees Celsius on Friday. Such cold conditions further contribute to pollution buildup, as cooler air limits vertical dispersion of pollutants.

The weather department has warned of moderate fog at many places and dense fog at isolated locations on Saturday and Sunday, which could impact visibility and traffic movement.

Health Advisory for Residents

As Delhi as air quality slips back to alarming levels with AQI at 355, health experts are urging residents to take precautions. People are advised to limit outdoor exposure, avoid strenuous activities, keep windows closed, and use air purifiers where possible.

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Schools, parents, and employers are also being urged to remain cautious, especially for children and vulnerable groups.

A Persistent Winter Challenge

Delhi’s recurring winter pollution crisis continues to highlight the need for long-term solutions. While emergency measures like GRAP provide temporary relief, experts stress that sustained action on emissions, cleaner transport, and regional coordination is essential to prevent repeated smog episodes.

For now, residents brace for another difficult phase as smog returns, once again reminding the city of its ongoing battle with air pollution.

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