Home / Environment / Delhi Air Curbs Lifted Amidst Shifting Winds, Future Uncertain
Delhi Air Curbs Lifted Amidst Shifting Winds, Future Uncertain
3 Jan
Summary
- Pollution restrictions were lifted as winds improved Delhi's air quality.
- Forecasting models predict air quality will deteriorate to 'very poor' soon.
- This is the second time emergency measures were revoked in 10 days.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) lifted Stage 3 pollution restrictions on Friday, citing improved air quality driven by strong winds. This decision comes as Delhi's 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) dropped significantly, but forecasts indicate a return to 'very poor' conditions starting Sunday and lasting for at least a week. This rollback allows construction, demolition, and mining activities to resume immediately, along with the lifting of some vehicular restrictions.
This marks the second instance in ten days where emergency measures were revoked shortly after weather-driven improvements, despite subsequent worsening air quality predictions. Experts suggest waiting for sustained improvements before lifting curbs, noting the unpredictable nature of winter weather patterns. The CAQM, however, justified the rollback by referencing the "prevailing trend of air quality" and the significant improvement observed.
While Stage 3 restrictions are lifted, measures under Stage 1 and Stage 2 remain in effect. Delhi's environment minister attributed the air quality improvement to the government's efforts. Separately, cold northwesterly winds are causing temperatures to drop, with minimum temperatures expected to hover between 6 and 8 degrees Celsius over the weekend, while power demand has surged above 5,500MW.
