Air quality in Delhi-NCR remains at ‘very poor’ level, AQI crosses 350 mark in Anand Vihar, Bawana, Jahangirpuri; Check pollution levels by area

After showing brief signs of improvement earlier this week, air quality in Delhi deteriorated again on Friday, returning to the ‘very poor’ category. Rising vehicular emissions and pollution seeping in from neighboring districts of the National Capital Region (NCR) continue to burden the capital’s atmosphere, erasing the short-lived relief of the past two days.

AQI levels exceed alarming thresholds

According to data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s average air quality index (AQI) was recorded at 292 at 8 am. This reading firmly placed the city in the ‘very poor’ category. Of the 39 monitoring stations in the capital, more than half reported an AQI level above 300, indicating unhealthy air conditions for residents.

Several areas emerged as pollution hotspots. Anand Vihar topped the list with an AQI of 377, closely followed by Jahangirpuri, Bawana and Ashok Vihar. At other locations, air quality was measured ranging from ‘poor’ to ‘moderate’. As per CPCB standards, AQI levels between 301 and 400 are classified as ‘very poor’, while levels above 401 are considered ‘severe’.

Vehicles and NCR districts create pollution

Analysis by the Decision Support System (DSS) for air quality management shows that vehicle emissions remain the dominant source of pollution in Delhi, accounting for almost a fifth of the total load. Industrial activities in Delhi and surrounding areas added a significant share, while construction and waste burning contributed a smaller but notable share.

The influx of pollution from the NCR districts further aggravated the situation. Jhajjar in Haryana was identified as the largest external contributor, followed by Rohtak and Sonipat. These neighboring regions continue to impact Delhi’s air quality, especially during periods of adverse weather conditions.

The weather offers little help

Meteorological conditions have not favored the spread of pollutants. Weak northwesterly winds, reaching speeds of only about 6 mph (10 km/h) in the afternoon hours, limited the clearing of airborne particles. The Air Quality Early Warning System indicated that such conditions could cause pollution levels to persist or worsen in the coming days.

Temperatures also reflected seasonal variations. The city recorded a maximum temperature slightly above normal, while the minimum temperature dipped marginally below average. Moderate fog is expected in the early morning hours, which could further reduce visibility and trap pollutants on the surface.

In December there are limited days with clean air

December has so far offered little respite for the people of Delhi. This month has already seen several days of ‘poor’ air quality, none of which were categorized as ‘satisfactory’. Earlier this week, the capital experienced a severe pollution episode when the AQI level exceeded 400. Compared to December last year, when there was a more balanced mix of air quality days, increasing environmental concerns remain this year.

With forecasts pointing to further deterioration, residents may need to brace for prolonged exposure to unhealthy air in the coming days.