Delhi's Air Quality Slips to 'Poor' as Winter Pollution Grips Capital

Delhi's air quality deteriorated to 'poor' status on Tuesday, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 230 at 8 a.m., signalling worsening atmospheric conditions across the capital. The measurement places the city firmly in the 'poor' category, where prolonged exposure poses health risks to vulnerable populations including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions.

Monitoring stations across the city recorded sharply divergent pollution levels, highlighting geographic disparities in air quality. Jahangirpuri reported an AQI of 307, while Vivek Vihar recorded 320, both registering in the 'very poor' category. These elevated readings underscore the concentration of pollution in certain pockets of the capital, requiring targeted interventions.

The deterioration in air quality coincided with a minimum temperature of 15.7°C, part of winter weather patterns that typically exacerbate Delhi's pollution crisis. Colder temperatures trap pollutants closer to ground level, reducing atmospheric dispersion and contributing to poor air quality conditions that persist through the winter months.

Authorities have continued monitoring air quality at multiple stations across the city. Residents have been advised to limit outdoor activities and use air purifiers indoors, particularly in areas registering 'very poor' air quality readings.