Delhi’s air quality, though slightly improved on Thursday, continues to be categorized as “very poor,” with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 371, down from 418 a day earlier. Despite this marginal improvement, pollution levels remain hazardous, with PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations far exceeding national and international safety standards.
Current Air Quality Snapshot
- AQI Readings:
- Delhi: 371 (very poor)
- Surrounding areas:
- Greater Noida: 212
- Noida: 253
- Gurgaon: 298
- Faridabad: 320
- Ghaziabad: 291
- Pollutants:
- PM2.5: 168.5–196.8 µg/m³ (National standard: 60 µg/m³; WHO standard: 15 µg/m³)
- PM10: 289.6–321.3 µg/m³ (National standard: 100 µg/m³; WHO standard: 45 µg/m³)
Weather and Smog Conditions
The city remains blanketed by a toxic haze, with minimal dispersion due to low wind speeds (6-8 km/h) and dry westerly winds. These conditions limit the ventilation index to below 6,000 m²/s, unfavorable for clearing pollutants.
- Forecast:
- Air quality is likely to stay “very poor” until November 24, with little relief expected in the coming days.
- Smog formation may decrease slightly due to lower moisture levels, but cold temperatures will hinder significant pollutant dispersion.
GRAP-IV Measures in Force
The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage IV remains active to address severe pollution levels:
- Construction Ban: Only essential projects are allowed.
- Truck Entry Ban: Limited to essential goods transport.
- Education & Work Adjustments:
- Physical classes remain suspended.
- Non-essential government offices operate at 50% capacity.
Temperature Trends
- Delhi:
- Maximum temperature: 26.4°C (+1.2°C from Wednesday)
- Minimum temperature: 11°C
- Gurgaon:
- Temperatures are expected to drop by 2-4°C over the next two days.
Health and Safety Advisory
Residents are advised to take precautions:
- Limit outdoor activities, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues.
- Use N95 masks when outside.
- Maintain air purifiers indoors, if possible.
While there is a slight reprieve in AQI, the situation highlights the pressing need for long-term solutions to tackle Delhi’s chronic air pollution crisis.
