Delhi's air quality improves compared to last year but pollution threats persist

Several contributing factors, primarily meteorological conditions and a decrease in stubble burning incidents in Punjab and Haryana, have helped improve the air quality in Delhi this year.

In Short

• Less stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana aids improvement
• Delhi's current AQI is 349, categorised as very poor
• Western Disturbance may worsen air quality this Friday

Delhi's air quality has shown some improvement this year, despite persisting concerns. While pollution levels were recorded under the 'very poor' category as of Monday, the overall conditions, however, are better than the 'severe' category seen around the same time last year.

A thick layer of smog engulfed Delhi on Monday as several parts of the capital city grappled with poor air pollution. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the air quality in Delhi was categorised as very poor, with an AQI of 349.

Several contributing factors, primarily meteorological conditions and a decrease in stubble burning incidents in Punjab and Haryana have helped improve air quality in Delhi this year.

Despite wind speeds being less favourable for dispersing pollutants, higher temperatures this season have allowed pollutants to dissipate more easily.

As a result, while regions like Pakistan, Punjab, and Rajasthan are experiencing significant pollutant accumulation, Delhi-NCR (National Capital Region) has so far been spared from the worst-case scenario.

The lower incidence of stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana, which has lessened the 'cocktail' of pollutants that typically exacerbates Delhi's pollution during this period.

However, a Western Disturbance is expected later this week, potentially carrying pollutants from the West and worsening Delhi's air quality around Friday.

Following this disturbance, stronger winds are expected, which could help clear pollutants from the area, although no rain is forecast in North India's plains.

Meanwhile, there are predictions of a temperature drop around November 20, coinciding with snowfall in the Himalayas. This cooling trend could potentially contribute to improved air quality by stabilising atmospheric conditions and reducing the inversion layers that often trap pollutants close to the ground.

While temporary pollution spikes are still likely, the current meteorological outlook and reduced stubble burning incidents present a cautiously optimistic picture that Delhi's worst pollution phase for the year may have already peaked.