Delhi is preparing for a sharp drop in air quality, with pollution levels expected to worsen through midweek. According to the Centre’s Air Quality Early Warning System (EWS), the city is likely to record its first “poor” air quality of the season, ending a four-month streak of satisfactory air.
On Monday afternoon, Delhi’s 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 189, which falls in the “moderate” category. This is higher than Sunday’s AQI of 167, showing a clear sign of air pollution rising again.
Poor Air Quality Expected Through October 16
The EWS forecast shows that Delhi’s air quality will remain in the “poor” category between October 14 and October 16. Experts say that it could slip into the “very poor” range later this week if weather conditions stay calm.
This trend is similar to what Delhi experienced in mid-June, when pollution levels suddenly spiked after weeks of cleaner air.
Pollution Hotspots Across the Capital
By 4 pm on Monday, monitoring stations at Anand Vihar, North Campus, and Okhla recorded AQI levels in the “very poor” category. Other areas like Mathura Road and Patparganj showed “poor” air quality.
After several months of clean skies, the start of Delhi’s annual smog season has returned, caused by a mix of stubble burning, cooler temperatures, and festive emissions. Experts warn that the situation could worsen until strong winds begin clearing the pollutants.
Why the Pollution Is Rising Again
Calm winds, lower wind speeds, and seasonal transition are trapping pollutants closer to the surface. The wind speed on Monday remained low, which allowed pollution particles to stay suspended in the air.
While stubble burning in nearby states usually worsens Delhi’s air, its contribution remains small so far. The Decision Support System (DSS) calculated stubble burning’s share at 0.62%, up slightly from 0.24% the previous day.
However, transport emissions continue to be the biggest contributor, making up nearly 20% of Delhi’s PM2.5 levels.
Delhi Weather Update
On Monday, Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 32.6°C, one degree higher than the previous day. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) expects clear skies through the week, with temperatures likely to touch 34°C by Wednesday.
The combination of dry weather, slow winds, and local emissions may keep pollution trapped, making the air quality worse by the end of the week.
