Tue Dec 24 15:20:00 UTC 2024: ## Delhi Sees Slight Air Quality Improvement After Light Rain, But Pollution Remains ‘Very Poor’
**New Delhi, India** – Light rain showers across parts of Delhi on Tuesday evening provided a temporary reprieve from the city’s persistent air pollution, resulting in a marginal improvement in air quality. However, the overall pollution levels remain in the “very poor” category, according to officials.
The air quality index (AQI) at 7 PM stood at 358, a slight improvement from the morning’s 398. While this indicates some improvement, areas like Mundka and Nehru Nagar still registered AQI levels in the “severe” range. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology predict further improvement in the coming days due to favorable weather conditions.
Despite the rain, the overall air quality in many parts of Delhi continues to cause concern. The Central government’s Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has lifted the fourth stage of restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) due to the observed decrease in pollution. These restrictions included halting all construction activities, banning non-essential diesel trucks from entering Delhi, and mandating hybrid schooling for all but classes 10 and 12. However, restrictions under stages 1, 2, and 3 remain in effect.
The maximum temperature on Tuesday was 20.8°C, slightly above normal, under a cloudy sky throughout the day.
Experts attribute the winter surge in Delhi-NCR’s air pollution to vehicle emissions, stubble burning, firecracker smoke, and unfavorable weather patterns. The GRAP categorizes air quality into four stages based on AQI: Poor (201-300), Very Poor (301-400), Severe (401-450), and Severe Plus (above 450).
While the rain brought some relief, the situation remains critical. Continued adherence to pollution control measures and public awareness are crucial to mitigating the ongoing air quality crisis.
First Piper 