Delhi’s Air Quality Improves to ‘Very Poor’ After Eight Days of ‘Severe’ Pollution

Delhi’s air quality has slightly improved, moving to the “very poor” category with an overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of 379, following eight consecutive days of “severe” pollution. However, several areas across the capital still recorded AQI levels above 400 on Thursday morning, remaining in the “severe” category.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Jahangirpuri and Wazirpur reported the highest AQI readings at 437, followed by Bawana at 419 and Ashok Vihar and Mundka at 416. Despite the improvement, a thick smog continues to blanket the city, reducing visibility and causing disruptions.

Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport witnessed delays for 97 flights, while three were cancelled due to poor visibility.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that Delhi’s temperature on Thursday ranged from 11°C to 26°C.

In response to the ongoing pollution crisis, the Delhi government has implemented work-from-home measures for 50% of its employees and announced school closures under Stages 3 and 4 of the revised Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).

Beyond Delhi, Jaipur and Chandigarh recorded AQI levels of 235 and 233, respectively, categorized as “poor.” Meanwhile, Aizawl and Guwahati reported the lowest pollution levels in the country, with AQI readings of 32 and 42, respectively, as of 7 a.m. Thursday.