After brief relief, Delhi's AQI plunges back to Severe category
Cold north-westerly winds have recently brought down temperatures, creating conducive conditions for the formation of smog. (Photo Credits: Getty Images)
Delhi's air quality has once again plummeted to the 'severe' category, causing concern among residents amidst recent fluctuations in the Air Quality Index (AQI). This morning (November 27), the AQI was recorded at 400, signaling the city being enveloped in dense smog.
Although the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts light rainfall for today and tomorrow (Tuesday), the air quality early warning system predicts the AQI to persist in the 'very poor' category at least until Wednesday.
27/11/2023: 08:30 IST; Light intensity rain/drizzle would occur over and adjoining areas of isolated places of Delhi ( Seelampur, Shahadra, Red fort, Preet Vihar, Rajeev chauk, ITO, India Gate, Akshardham, Lodi Road, Nehru Stadium, Defence Colony, Lajpat Nagar, Malviyanagar,
— RWFC New Delhi (@RWFC_ND) November 27, 2023
The deterioration
This recent decline follows a shift in air quality from 'very poor' observed just a week ago. The progression of AQI in the national capital reflects the severity: 385 on Sunday, 389 on Saturday, 415 on Friday, 390 on Thursday, 394 on Wednesday, 365 on Tuesday, 348 on Monday, and 301 on November 19.
Cold north-westerly winds have recently brought down temperatures, creating conducive conditions for the formation of smog.
#WATCH | Delhi: Air Quality Index (AQI) in 'Severe' category in the National Capital.
— ANI (@ANI) November 27, 2023
Drone Visuals from Kalindi Kunj shot at 7:45 am. pic.twitter.com/QzRx5zGPbQ
Short-term improvement
Previously, an improved AQI led to the reopening of Delhi schools on Monday, November 20. Additionally, the government relaxed Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), allowing the operation of medium and heavy goods vehicles within the capital.
What contributed to this decline?
However, the current deterioration in air quality signifies a resurgence of air pollution. Contributing factors include vehicular emissions, biomass burning (including farm fires), and fine particulate matter generated from gas emissions by power plants, industries, and vehicles.
Before Diwali on November 12, Delhi witnessed a temporary improvement in air quality due to rainfall, which worsened post the festival.
Although the government contemplated measures like the odd-even scheme and artificial rain, the primary cause of declining air quality appears to be the weather, particularly the slow wind speed.