The Aryavarth Express
New Delhi: Delhi recorded a marginal improvement in air quality on Wednesday morning, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) standing at 273 at around 7 am, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Despite the improvement, air quality remained in the ‘poor’ category.
The AQI showed a slight decline from Tuesday’s level of 294. However, dense smog continued to blanket several parts of the city, indicating that pollution levels remain a concern.
As per CPCB data, the AQI at Anand Vihar was recorded at 280, falling in the ‘poor’ category, while Patpadganj reported an AQI of 304, categorised as ‘very poor’. Several other monitoring stations across the capital also recorded ‘very poor’ air quality. Anand Vihar registered an AQI of 362, Ashok Vihar 323, Bawana 332, Chandni Chowk 340, Dwarka Sector 8 at 317, and Mundka at 323.
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast rain or thundershowers accompanied by strong gusty winds throughout the day. Thunderstorms with lightning and winds ranging between 30 and 40 kmph are expected during different parts of the day. Temperatures are likely to range between 9 and 19 degrees Celsius.
In view of the improving air quality and favourable weather forecast, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has revoked Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR. However, authorities have urged citizens to strictly follow the guidelines under Stages I and II of GRAP, citing the winter season and the possibility of unfavourable weather conditions leading to a deterioration in air quality.
According to AQI standards, levels between 201 and 300 are classified as ‘poor’, 301 to 400 as ‘very poor’, while readings above 400 fall under the ‘severe’ category.
