World · India Bureau
Delhi's Air Quality Remains Poor as Stubble Burning Set to Worsen
The national capital's air quality is expected to deteriorate further over the coming days as the contribution of crop residue burning to pollution levels escalates. Authorities warn of no immediate relief from the worsening conditions.
LSN India ·
Delhi's air quality index remained in the 'poor' category on Thursday, with weather conditions offering no respite from the ongoing pollution crisis. The situation is expected to worsen as agricultural burning intensifies across neighboring states, a primary contributor to the capital's seasonal air degradation.
Data shows the proportion of pollution attributed to stubble burning is set to increase significantly through the week. The contribution rose from 3.9 percent on Wednesday to 7.4 percent on Thursday, with forecasts indicating it could climb to 15.9 percent by Friday as harvest season accelerates across Punjab and Haryana.
The escalating levels come as meteorological conditions remain unfavorable for dispersion of pollutants. Light winds and stable atmospheric conditions are trapping pollutants over the Delhi region, preventing natural clearance of suspended particulates and other harmful substances.
Authorities have warned residents to prepare for continued poor air quality over the next several days. The seasonal spike, driven largely by agricultural practices in neighboring states, typically persists until late autumn when wind patterns shift and burning operations diminish.