Delhi enters GRAP-III zone as AQI breaches 400-mark despite a week of clear, sunny weather

Delhi AQI

Delhi offered residents a morning of comfortable, sunny conditions on Tuesday, with temperatures beginning at a mild 18.2 degrees Celsius. However, this meteorological reprieve is shadowed by a severe air quality hangover from the previous day, compelling health advisories and caution despite the inviting climate.

According to data from AQI.in, the capital’s air quality index (AQI) on Monday registered a alarming 442, firmly placing it in the 'severe' category. The primary pollutants identified were PM2.5 and PM10, with levels recorded at 300 and 393, respectively — concentrations known to provoke respiratory issues and pose significant risks to vulnerable demographics, TOI reported.

Today’s forecast promises a mostly sunny day with a high of 28 degrees Celsius, gentle winds and no chance of rain, creating an ostensibly perfect setting for outdoor engagements. The humidity is a low 17% and a refreshing cool breeze is anticipated after sunset.

Nevertheless, the official guidance, sourced from AQI.in, urges residents to limit prolonged outdoor exposure and to carry masks, particularly in traffic-heavy zones. The report specifically cautions that while clear skies may aid in dispersing some pollutants, the lingering effects of yesterday’s severe pollution could persist.

Vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, are considered most at risk. For those planning their day, the recommendation is to avoid strenuous outdoor exercise during peak traffic hours, though evening walks are deemed more suitable as traffic volumes decrease.

The outlook for the remainder of the week appears consistently pleasant from a weather perspective. AQI.in forecasts uninterrupted sunshine with daytime temperatures hovering around 28 degrees Celsius and cool nights dipping to approximately 18 degrees Celsius.

The broader air quality picture is expected to remain stable, though the report notes the persistent possibility of occasional, traffic-related pollution spikes. This serves as a reminder of the city's ongoing air quality challenges, starkly contrasted by the fact that just days earlier, on November 5, the AQI was recorded at a significantly lower 228 — the cleanest air the capital has experienced this month.

While the sunny weather offers a temporary lure for outdoor activities, the severe pollution levels of the preceding day underscore a critical public health issue. The data highlights that despite deceptively clear skies, sustained efforts to curb emissions remain imperative for long-term improvements in the capital's breathable air.