Hazy Skies Persist in Delhi Despite Improved Air Quality Readings

As of October 30, 2025, the air quality in Delhi continues to be a cause for concern, despite recent improvements in the city's air quality index (AQI). The capital's 24-hour average AQI stood at 279 in the "poor" category on October 30, down from 294 the previous day and 301 the day before that.

However, the visible haze blanketing the city has left experts puzzled. They suggest that the apparent contradiction between the improved AQI readings and the persistent hazy skies could be due to a combination of meteorological conditions and potential measurement anomalies.

Atmospheric experts explain that stagnant conditions, including a drop in wind speeds and a shallow mixing depth, have prevented the effective dispersion of pollutants. Additionally, a temperature inversion phenomenon, where warm air traps cooler, polluted air near the surface, has intensified as seasonal temperatures drop, creating the visible haze.

Some experts have also questioned the accuracy of the air quality data, citing recent incidents where authorities have been seen using mist and water sprayers close to weather stations. This has raised concerns about the reliability of the measurements and whether they truly reflect the actual pollution levels in the city.

As Delhi braces for the onset of its annual pre-winter pollution crisis, the outlook for the coming days remains grim. The Air Quality Early Warning System forecasts that air quality will deteriorate to "very poor" by October 31, with the hazy conditions expected to persist through the week as particulate matter continues to accumulate near ground level.