Delhi NCR Air Quality Update
On Wednesday, the air quality index (AQI) in Delhi NCR crossed 300, falling into the very poor category. In response, the Central Air Quality Management Commission has introduced Graded Response Action Plan (Grape-3) restrictions. This means a ban on BS-3 petrol and BS-4 diesel vehicles, and all construction activities will be halted. Classes up to the fifth grade will operate in a hybrid mode.
According to the Central Pollution Control Board, the average AQI on Wednesday was recorded at 365 points, which is considered extremely poor.
Weather and Pollution Factors
The Central Air Quality Management Commission noted that the AQI of Delhi, which was 276 on January 28, rapidly increased to 365 by 4 PM on January 29. This spike is attributed to several factors including variable wind directions, cool winds, haze, low mixing height, and limited ventilation for pollutant dispersion. Weather forecasts suggest that similar conditions may persist over the coming days.
Temperature Trends
Meanwhile, western disturbances are affecting northwest India, leading to eastern winds and an increase in temperature. On Wednesday, Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 25.5 degrees Celsius, which is three degrees above normal. This temperature is nearly the same as the 25.4 degrees Celsius noted the previous day. Forecasts indicate that the maximum temperature by the weekend will range between 24 and 27 degrees. Nights are expected to be warm due to cloudy conditions, with minimum temperatures anticipated to be around 10-12 degrees Celsius.
Upcoming Weather Changes
There are predictions of a return of winter in Delhi, with chances of rain over the weekend, which may lead to a drop in temperatures. Two western disturbances are expected to impact the region, bringing snowfall to the mountains and cold winds to Delhi. The Meteorological Department has forecasted light rain in Delhi and surrounding areas in early February, although this rain is not expected to significantly affect temperatures. On Wednesday morning, wind speeds were recorded between 10–15 km per hour, and light rain is likely on February 1 and 2.
Air Quality Update – Delhi NCR
| Parameter |
Details |
| Current AQI |
365 (Very Poor) |
| Restrictions Imposed |
Grape-3 restrictions: Ban on BS-3 petrol and BS-4 diesel vehicles, ban on construction works |
| Temperature |
Max: 25.5 °C (3 °C above normal) |
| Forecasted Temperature |
Max between 24-27 °C, Min expected 10-12 °C |
| Rain Forecast |
Light rain on 1st and 2nd February, no significant impact on temperature |
| Wind Speed |
10–15 km/h |
Key Points
- Western disturbances affecting northwest India.
- Hazy conditions and cool winds are causing rapid AQI increase.
- Pollution forecasts indicate continued poor air quality in coming days.
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