Dec 25: The national capital witnessed a significant improvement in air quality on Thursday morning, with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 221 around 8 am. Despite the improvement, air quality remained in the ‘poor’ category, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
The AQI showed a sharp decline compared to Wednesday, when levels had crossed 300. However, a thin layer of smog continued to linger in several parts of the city.In Anand Vihar, visibility was relatively clear despite light smog, with the AQI recorded at 292, still falling under the ‘poor’ category.
Similar conditions were observed in areas such as Dhaula Kuan, Akshardham and around India Gate.CPCB data showed that several areas experienced improved air quality, including Bawana (289), Chandni Chowk (255), Dwarka Sector 8 (222) and Patparganj (230), though all remained in the ‘poor’ category. Delhi Technological University (DTU) also recorded a ‘poor’ AQI of 249.
Some localities reported comparatively better air quality. Aya Nagar recorded an AQI of 137, placing it in the ‘moderate’ category. Mandir Marg (171), Najafgarh (137) and CRRI Mathura Road (162) also reported ‘moderate’ air quality levels.As per CPCB classification, AQI values between 0–50 are considered ‘good’, 51–100 ‘satisfactory’, 101–200 ‘moderate’, 201–300 ‘poor’, 301–400 ‘very poor’, and 401–500 ‘severe’.
Meanwhile, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in the National Capital Region and adjoining areas on Wednesday revoked actions under Stage-IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) with immediate effect, citing sustained improvement in air quality.According to CAQM, the decision followed a review meeting of the Sub-Committee on GRAP, which assessed current air quality levels and forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM).
The Commission noted that Delhi’s AQI improved significantly from Monday night due to high wind speeds and favourable meteorological conditions. However, forecasts suggest a possible rise in AQI levels in the coming days as wind speeds are expected to slow down.
