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Delhi's Air Cleans Up, Then Quickly Worsens
18 Oct
Summary
- Delhi's AQI reached 216, categorized as 'Unhealthy' or 'Poor'.
- Air quality improved significantly before worsening overnight.
- No rain is forecast, suggesting prolonged pollution concerns.
Delhi's air quality has experienced a rapid decline, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) climbing to 216 on October 17. This reading places the air in the 'Unhealthy' category according to AQI.in, or 'Poor' on India's official Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) scale.
Earlier on October 17, Delhi had enjoyed a brief period of significantly improved air quality, with the AQI dropping to approximately 65. However, this respite was short-lived, as pollution levels began to rise sharply in the evening.
Overnight, the AQI surged past 200, peaking around 240, before rising again to 216 by mid-morning on October 17. The situation is particularly concerning as the city heads into winter, a season when pollutants typically become more difficult to disperse.
Looking ahead, forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predict clear skies with no rain expected until at least October 23. The Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) further projects that Delhi's air quality will remain in the 'Poor' category for the subsequent six days.
