Delhi’s air quality worsens to ‘very poor’ as AQI crosses 300 mark

New Delhi: Delhi woke up to another smoggy morning on Friday as the city’s air quality fell into the “very poor” category, with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) crossing 300, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

At 7 am, Delhi recorded an average AQI of 312, marking a sharp decline after two days of moderate improvement. Nearby cities also reported poor air quality: Faridabad (295), Gurugram (288), Ghaziabad (296), Greater Noida (275), and Noida (289). Most parts of Delhi registered AQI readings between 300 and 400, indicating “very poor” air conditions.

A dense layer of haze and smog covered several parts of the capital, reducing visibility and leaving a grey blanket over major roads and landmarks. Chandni Chowk recorded an AQI of 350, while levels near Indira Gandhi International Airport stood at 290, classified as “poor.”

Experts attributed the decline in air quality to lower temperatures, stagnant wind conditions, and an increase in stubble burning across Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.

The Decision Support System (DSS) for air quality forecasting estimated that stubble burning contributed 21.5% to Delhi’s PM2.5 levels on Thursday. The share is projected to rise to 36.9% on Friday and remain high at around 32.4% on Saturday.

Satellite data showed 94 stubble-burning incidents in Punjab, 13 in Haryana, and 74 in Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday.

Since Diwali, Delhi’s pollution levels have fluctuated between the “poor” and “very poor” categories, occasionally reaching “severe.” On Thursday, environmental and student groups staged a protest at Jantar Mantar, urging authorities to take stronger action and protect citizens’ right to clean air.

According to forecasts, Delhi’s air quality is likely to remain in the “very poor” range until November 8, as officials continue to track pollution sources and weather patterns.

(with inputs from agencies)