Delhi AQI close to 'poor' as winter approaches: Experts advise precautions amid rising pollution levels

As winter chill settles in Delhi, the city is preparing for another seasonal rise in air pollution. On Saturday, the Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 199, just a few points short of the “poor” category, signalling potential health concerns for residents.

Delhi Records AQI of 199 on Saturday as Air Pollution Approaches ‘Poor’ Level

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Delhi’s minimum temperature on Saturday was 19.4 degrees Celsius, 1.6 degrees below normal, while the maximum settled at 30.3 degrees Celsius, 3.9 degrees below normal. At 4 pm, the city’s AQI was in the moderate range at 199, with an AQI between 201 and 300 classified as “poor”.

This is the first time since June that Delhi’s air quality has come so close to the “poor” category this year, raising concerns about health impacts, especially for children, the elderly, and people with respiratory issues.

Transport Sector Remains Biggest Contributor to Delhi’s Rising Pollution Levels

Data from the Decision Support System (DSS) indicates that the transport sector continues to be the largest contributor to Delhi’s pollution, accounting for 17.9 per cent of total emissions. Vehicles, including private cars, buses, and trucks, are major sources of particulate matter that worsen the city’s air quality during winter months.

Stubble Burning in Punjab, Haryana and UP-NCR Adds to Delhi’s Pollution Woes

Satellite imagery detected stubble burning incidents on Saturday, adding to the city’s pollution load. Punjab reported 14 incidents, Haryana one, and the UP-NCR region 42 incidents. Experts have warned that smoke from these fires drifts into Delhi, significantly affecting the AQI and making winter smog more severe.

IMD Forecasts Clear Skies on Sunday as Temperatures Hover Between 19 and 31 Degrees Celsius

The IMD forecast for Sunday predicts mainly clear skies, with minimum and maximum temperatures expected to hover around 19 and 31 degrees Celsius, respectively. However, experts caution that pollution levels may remain high despite favourable weather, especially in the early mornings and evenings.

Understanding Delhi’s AQI Categories and Health Impacts as Pollution Rises

As per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), AQI levels are classified as follows:

• 0–50: Good
• 51–100: Satisfactory
• 101–200: Moderate
• 201–300: Poor
• 301–400: Very Poor
• 401–500: Severe

With Delhi’s AQI nearing 200, residents are advised to limit outdoor activities, wear masks if necessary, and take precautions to reduce exposure, particularly in high-traffic areas.

Inputs from agencies