Air quality in the national capital deteriorated sharply on Saturday morning, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 216 at around 10:31 am, raising concerns about worsening pollution levels ahead of winter.
According to hourly data published by AQI.in, pollution levels fluctuated significantly between October 16 and October 17. With no rainfall expected in the coming days, concerns are growing that pollutants may continue to accumulate in the atmosphere.
As winter approaches, unfavourable weather conditions could make the situation more challenging for residents, particularly children, older people and those with respiratory problems.
AQI Drops Before Rising Sharply Overnight
Hourly data from AQI.in, covering the period from 10:31 am on October 16 to 10:31 am on October 17, showed considerable fluctuations in Delhi’s air quality.
The AQI stood at approximately 135 at the beginning of the period before gradually declining to around 65 by the afternoon. However, the improvement was short-lived.
Pollution levels began rising sharply in the evening, with the AQI crossing 200 and reaching approximately 240 overnight. Although the index declined temporarily, it climbed again to 216 on Saturday morning.
The readings indicate a deterioration in air quality after a brief period of improvement.
It is important to note that AQI.in and India’s Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) use different AQI classification systems. Under the AQI.in scale cited in the report, a reading of 216 falls in the ‘unhealthy’ category. Under the CPCB’s classification, readings between 201 and 300 are categorised as ‘poor’.
Despite the difference in terminology, both classifications indicate that air quality has deteriorated.
Why Could Pollution Worsen Further?
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast clear skies over Delhi, with no rainfall expected until October 23, according to the weather outlook cited in the report.
The maximum temperature is expected to remain around 31–33 degrees Celsius initially and may rise by 2–3 degrees after October 17.
The absence of rainfall could contribute to the persistence of air pollution. Rain helps remove some airborne pollutants by washing particles out of the atmosphere. Without this natural cleansing process, particulate matter may remain suspended in the air for longer.
However, pollution levels also depend on wind speed and direction, atmospheric conditions and the rate at which pollutants disperse.
Winter Raises Concerns Over Delhi’s Air Quality
Delhi regularly experiences deteriorating air quality during the winter months. Changes in atmospheric conditions can limit the dispersion of pollutants, allowing emissions from vehicles, construction activities and other sources to accumulate.
The latest increase in AQI has renewed concerns about the coming weeks, particularly if dry weather continues and winds remain unfavourable for pollutant dispersion.
Residents, especially those sensitive to air pollution, should monitor official air-quality advisories and consider limiting prolonged outdoor exertion when pollution levels are high.
With rainfall unlikely in the immediate forecast period, Delhi’s air quality will depend largely on changing meteorological conditions and the extent to which pollutants can disperse.