Delhi’s AQI Eases to ‘Poor’ as Rain and Thunderstorms Bring Relief

A shift in weather patterns has brought a much-needed reprieve to the National Capital Region (NCR). On Friday morning, light rain and thunderstorms swept across Delhi, helping to wash away some of the persistent smog that has plagued the city.

While the air quality remains a concern, the shift from "very poor" to "poor" marks a turning point in the city's recent pollution crisis.

Weather Shift and Atmospheric Changes

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the sudden rainfall is the result of an active western disturbance.

This meteorological phenomenon has triggered cloudy skies, gusty winds reaching speeds of 30-40 kmph, and lightning.The IMD also noted a significant surge in minimum temperatures, which rose between $4.5@{\circ}C$ and $7.4@{\circ}C$ within a 24-hour window. On Friday morning, the mercury stood at approximately $16.4@{\circ}C$. Forecasters expect intermittent light rain to continue throughout the afternoon and evening, further aiding in the dispersal of pollutants.

Air Quality Trends: A Marginal Recovery

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recorded the city's average Air Quality Index (AQI) at 297 at 7:00 AM on Friday. This is a slight improvement from Thursday's reading of 312, moving the city out of the "very poor" bracket and into the "poor" category.

Despite the general improvement, several hotspots still struggle with high pollution levels:

Wazirpur: 351 (Very Poor)

Bawana: 342 (Very Poor)

Ashok Vihar: 335 (Very Poor)

Chandni Chowk: 326 (Very Poor)

ITO: 266 (Poor)

In light of the improving atmospheric conditions and the favorable weather forecast provided by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has taken action. On January 22, the sub-committee officially revoked Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).

Stage III, which includes strict bans on non-essential construction and demolition activities, had been in place since January 16. Officials noted that the average AQI had shown a consistent downward trend, dropping from 378 on January 20 to the current levels. While Stage I and II measures remain in effect to prevent a rebound, the lifting of Stage III offers a significant easing of restrictions for the construction industry and regional logistics.

Beyond Delhi, the weather system has also impacted Jammu, where rainfall has led to a sharp drop in temperatures, bringing chilly conditions to the region.