New Delhi (Rajeev Sharma): Delhi’s air quality showed a marginal improvement on Sunday morning, moving from the ‘very poor’ to the ‘poor’ category, according to the latest data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). At 7 a.m., the city recorded an AQI of 269, down from 305 on Saturday afternoon.
Despite this slight improvement, dense smog remained visible over large parts of the capital, affecting visibility and daily life. Areas such as Shadipur (335), Jahangirpuri (324), Nehru Nagar (319), RK Puram (307), and Dilshad Garden (303) continued to experience ‘very poor’ air quality. Mandir Marg, on the other hand, recorded the lowest AQI among major stations at 158, falling into the ‘moderate’ category.
Several other localities, including Bawana (295), Rohini (291), Vivek Vihar (289), Chandni Chowk (281), Anand Vihar (281), Sonia Vihar (277), and ITO (269), were in the ‘poor’ range, highlighting persistent pollution across the city.
The Delhi government said it is closely monitoring pollution levels and taking steps to control emissions, although residents continue to be affected by the lingering smog. The situation has also triggered political criticism. Senior Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit accused authorities of negligence, warning that prolonged exposure to toxic air could shorten life expectancy.
“Delhi’s environment has steadily worsened over the past several years. Doctors warn that living in such conditions can reduce life spans. This is effectively poisoning people over time, and accountability lies with those responsible,” Dikshit said.
Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has also urged Parliament to hold a discussion on the issue, emphasizing the urgent need for measures to address Delhi’s worsening air quality and safeguard public health.
