Delhi's air quality oscillate between 'poor' and 'very poor' categories: Authorities

The air quality in the national capital oscillated between 'poor' and 'very poor' categories on November 18 due to increased pollutant-holding capacity of air after rainfall a few days back, authorities said. According to the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting (SAFAR), the overall air quality index (AQI) in Delhi was recorded at 326, which comes under 'very poor' category.

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data showed the overall AQI at 299, which falls in the 'poor' category. According data provided by the apex pollution control body, 14 areas in Delhi recorded 'very poor' air quality and another 14 recorded 'poor' air quality.

The PM2.5 — particles in the air with a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometres — level on Sunday was recorded at 153, while the PM10 level was recorded at 289, the CPCB data said.

An AQI between 0 and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'.

The SAFAR, in a report, said Delhi's air quality is fluctuating between poor and very poor and it is expected to be in the very poor category in the next two days.

"Wind speed is quite good for dispersion of pollutants which is keeping pollution in check," its said, adding, "Fire counts from stubble burning declined significantly and hence have negligible impact.