Why is Delhi's air quality still poor despite recent improvements?

Experts attribute the persistent hazy skies in Delhi to meteorological conditions, such as stagnant atmospheric conditions and temperature inversions, which are trapping pollutants near the surface.

How accurate are the air quality measurements in Delhi?

Some experts have questioned the reliability of the air quality data, citing incidents of authorities using mist and water sprayers near weather stations, which could be skewing the measurements.

What is the outlook for Delhi's air pollution in the coming days?

The Air Quality Early Warning System forecasts that Delhi's 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.

Home / Weather / Hazy Skies Persist in Delhi Despite Improved Air Quality Readings

Hazy Skies Persist in Delhi Despite Improved Air Quality Readings

30 Oct

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Summary

Delhi's air quality index remains "poor" despite recent improvements
Experts cite meteorological conditions and potential measurement anomalies
Atmospheric stagnation and temperature inversions trapping pollutants

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.