Delhi AQI stays ‘satisfactory’ for 11 days, longest clean air spell this year

Delhi rain

Delhi has recorded its longest stretch of clean air this year, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) remaining in the ‘satisfactory’ category for the eleventh consecutive day, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). On Sunday, the average AQI stood at 76, well below the 100-mark threshold for satisfactory air.

The improved air quality began on June 26, when the AQI dropped to 94 after registering a ‘moderate’ level of 134 the previous day, as reported by The Economic Times. Since then, the capital has consistently enjoyed cleaner air, a rare respite for a city often grappling with hazardous pollution, particularly in winter.

Though significant rainfall has been sporadic, light to moderate showers have contributed to clearing pollutants. In the 24 hours leading up to Sunday morning, Ayanagar recorded 11.7 mm of rain, while Palam received 20.9 mm, the highest in the city. Lodhi Road and Safdarjung saw lighter showers of 1.5 mm and 0.8 mm, respectively as per The Indian Express.

Temperatures have also remained relatively mild. On Sunday, Palam’s maximum temperature dropped to 33.5 degrees Celsius, nearly four degrees below normal, while Safdarjung recorded a minimum of 28.8 degrees Celsius, close to seasonal averages, The Economic Times reported. Humidity levels rose to 83% by evening, but the rain helped cleanse the atmosphere.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Monday, predicting light to moderate rain and thunderstorms. Maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to hover around 33 degrees Celsius and 26 degrees Celsius, respectively, as per The Indian Express. If conditions hold, Delhi could extend its clean air streak further, a welcome relief for residents.

Historically, these months record Delhi’s best air quality due to monsoon rains and easterly winds, which help disperse pollutants. The current spell marks a positive shift after the delayed arrival of the monsoon this year.