Delhi recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 187 at 8 a.m. on Monday, placing the national capital in the 'moderate' category, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). While the overall reading indicated some improvement in air quality, several monitoring stations across the city continued to report elevated pollution levels.
Data from various monitoring stations showed considerable differences in air quality across Delhi. Burari recorded an AQI of 128, followed by Badarpur at 125, Nangloi at 150, JNU at 157 and Mandir Marg at 165. However, higher readings were reported at Jahangirpuri (251), R.K. Puram (233), CRRI Mathura Road (231), Punjabi Bagh (229), Narela (227), Mundka (226) and Vivek Vihar (240).
Other monitoring stations, including Uttam Nagar and Sirifort, recorded AQI levels of 215 each, while Dwarka Sector 8 registered 207. Patparganj and Sonia Vihar recorded readings of 202 each, while Rohini stood at 200.
The city's air pollution is primarily associated with fine particulate matter, including PM2.5 and PM10. While some areas reported relatively lower pollution levels, several locations continued to experience poor air quality.
Amid concerns over further deterioration, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) invoked Stage 1 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR on October 21. Under the first stage, the use of coal and firewood in tandoors at hotels, restaurants and open-air eateries is prohibited. The operation of diesel generator sets is also restricted, except for essential and emergency requirements.
Alongside air pollution, the return of thick white foam on the Yamuna River near Kalindi Kunj has raised fresh concerns over water pollution in Delhi-NCR. The recurring phenomenon has once again drawn attention to the challenges surrounding the river's cleanliness and rejuvenation.
The development comes days after Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta praised the government's initiatives to rejuvenate the Yamuna and described the inauguration of infrastructure projects worth approximately Rs 9,000 crore as a joyful occasion for residents.
Meanwhile, air quality across other major Indian cities also remains a concern. Available readings on October 26 showed Mumbai recording AQI levels ranging from approximately 111 to 156, while Bengaluru registered readings between 101 and 121. Delhi's readings varied considerably across monitoring stations, with some locations recording AQI levels above 250.
Under India's AQI classification, readings between 101 and 200 fall under the 'moderate' category, while levels between 201 and 300 are classified as 'poor'. Air quality can fluctuate throughout the day depending on weather conditions, traffic emissions, construction activity and other pollution sources.
Residents are advised to monitor local air quality updates and limit prolonged or strenuous outdoor activities when pollution levels are elevated. Children, older people and those with respiratory conditions should take additional precautions.
