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Delhi's Air Quality Improves to 'Very Poor' but Severe Smog Persists

Delhi-NCR's air quality showed a slight improvement, with the overall AQI recorded at 397 in the 'very poor' category, down from higher readings over the weekend. However, several key locations, including Akshardham and ITO, continue to grapple with 'severe' pollution levels. In response, authorities have enforced Phase 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan, which includes strict vehicle checks and curbs on construction. Environmental experts warn that without favorable weather conditions like strong winds, the hazardous air situation is likely to persist in the coming days.

Key Points: Delhi AQI Improves to 'Very Poor' | Smog & GRAP Phase 4 Active

  • AQI improved to 397 ('very poor') from higher levels
  • GRAP Phase 4 restrictions are active across NCR
  • Key areas like Akshardham still in 'severe' category
  • IMD predicts temperatures around 24°C max and 8°C min
2 min read

Delhi's air quality improves to 'very poor' category

Delhi's air quality index improved to 397 ('very poor') but severe pollution persists in parts of the capital. GRAP Phase 4 measures are in effect as experts warn of continued poor air.

"The city's AQI is likely to remain in the 'severe' or 'very poor' category for the coming days. - Air Quality Early Warning System"

New Delhi, Jan 20

Delhi-NCR experienced a slight improvement in air quality compared to the previous two days as the Air Quality Index was recorded at 397, which is categorised as "very poor," according to the Central Pollution Control Board.

The AQI decreased from 418 on Monday to 439 on Sunday.

A thin layer of smog still blanketed the National Capital Region, slightly reducing the visibility.

The temperature, however, saw an increase, giving relief to the residents from the harsh cold. According to the India Meteorological Department's (IMD) predictions, the maximum and minimum temperatures on Tuesday are expected to be around 24 °C and 8°C, respectively.

Meanwhile, the Air Quality Early Warning System (AQEWS) has warned that the city's AQI is likely to remain in the 'severe' or 'very poor' category for the coming days.

Several places in the capital continue to face hazardous air conditions.

At Akshardham, the AQI was recorded at 445, while ITO recorded '414', India Gate recorded 409, placing all in the 'severe' category.

In response to the severe pollution levels, authorities have implemented Phase 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan across the NCR.

As part of the measures under GRAP, strict checks are being conducted on vehicles entering Delhi.

Polluting vehicles are being stopped, while construction and related activities have been severely curtailed to prevent further deterioration in air quality.

Environmental experts warned that if there is no significant change in weather conditions and strong winds do not pick up, the situation could worsen in the coming days.

The administration has appealed to people to avoid stepping out unless absolutely necessary, wear masks for protection, and take special precautions for children and the elderly, who are considered most vulnerable to the harmful effects of severe air pollution.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
At least some relief from the cold! But swapping one problem for another isn't a solution. The GRAP checks are good, but they feel like a band-aid. We need to tackle stubble burning in neighboring states and construction dust year-round.
D
David E
Visiting from London and the air here is a shock to the system. The visibility near India Gate was terrible yesterday. It's a serious public health issue. Hope the authorities' warnings are heeded by everyone.
A
Aman W
The AQI at Akshardham is 445? That's severe! And we call 397 very poor an improvement? This is wordplay, not progress. My parents in Delhi are both asthmatic. This season is a nightmare for them every year. Stay safe, everyone. Wear N95 masks.
S
Sneha F
It's good that vehicle checks are happening. But what about the older industrial units? And the waste burning in open areas? We need a comprehensive plan. On a positive note, the slight warmth is a welcome change from the chill!
K
Karthik V
Respectfully, the article focuses on Delhi-NCR, but the problem is regional. The wind patterns don't stop at state borders. Until Punjab, Haryana, and UP are fully on board with sustainable solutions, Delhi will keep suffering. A collective effort is the only way.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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