What caused the improvement in Delhi's air quality?

Sunny skies and brisk winds helped disperse pollutants in Delhi, leading to a significant improvement in the city's air quality index.

How long is the relief from poor air quality expected to last in Delhi?

Experts warn that the improved air quality in Delhi is likely to be short-lived, as conditions are expected to deteriorate again on Saturday, potentially pushing the AQI back into the 'very poor' range.

What is the overall trend in Delhi's air quality in 2025?

According to the Commission for Air Quality Management, the period between January and October 2025 recorded the cleanest air in Delhi in eight years, excluding the lockdown year of 2020.

Home / Environment / Delhi's Air Quality Improves Dramatically, but Experts Warn of Looming Decline

Delhi's Air Quality Improves Dramatically, but Experts Warn of Looming Decline

1 Nov

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Summary

Delhi's air quality index improved from 'very poor' to 'poor' on Friday
Sunny skies and brisk winds helped disperse pollutants
Forecasters predict conditions will worsen again on Saturday

Delhi's Air Quality Improves Dramatically, but Experts Warn of Looming Decline

On November 1, 2025, Delhi's air quality saw a significant improvement, with the city's 24-hour average air quality index (AQI) dropping from a season-high 373 ('very poor') on Thursday to 218 ('poor') on Friday. By 8 PM, the AQI further decreased to 203 ('poor'), according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board.

Experts attribute the improved air quality to marginally stronger winds and bright sunshine on Friday, which aided the dispersion of pollutants. Rain in neighboring Haryana and Uttar Pradesh may have also had a "washout" effect on pollutants in the National Capital Region. However, forecasters warn that the relief is likely to be short-lived, as wind speeds are expected to drop again on Saturday, potentially worsening the AQI and pushing it back into the 'very poor' category.