New Delhi (Rajeev Sharma): The national capital woke up on Sunday to another slide in air quality, as pollution levels edged closer to the “very poor” category after a short-lived improvement earlier in the week. Monitoring stations recorded the Air Quality Index close to 300 during the morning hours, reflecting a steady build-up of pollutants across the city.
According to official data, the AQI was significantly higher than Saturday’s average, indicating that favourable winds which had earlier cleared the air had weakened. Environmental experts attribute the decline to stagnant atmospheric conditions, common during winter, which prevent pollutants from dispersing.
The deteriorating air coincided with foggy weather across parts of north India. Although Delhi did not witness a sharp drop in visibility, the fog affected flight operations in the wider region. Aviation tracking data showed that around 170 flights linked to Delhi were delayed, with airport authorities explaining that poor weather at other airports disrupted schedules even where local conditions remained manageable.
The Commission for Air Quality Management had lifted stricter pollution curbs on Friday after wind speeds improved, but officials warned that such relief could be temporary. Their concerns appear to be playing out, with forecasts now suggesting sustained poor air quality in the coming days.
The Air Quality Early Warning System has projected that pollution levels may remain elevated through Tuesday, with little chance of significant improvement unless weather conditions change. Authorities may revisit additional control measures if the index crosses critical thresholds.
Adding to the winter discomfort, temperatures dipped again. The minimum temperature was recorded below normal on Sunday, while daytime temperatures are expected to remain subdued.
With colder nights, weakening winds and rising emissions, residents have been advised to limit prolonged outdoor activity as the capital braces for another stretch of polluted air.
