Delhi Residents Brace for Continued Pollution; AQI Forecast Remains Poor

New Delhi: The air quality in Delhi remained in the “Very Poor” category for the 12th consecutive day, with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 353 on Tuesday. Experts have warned that ash clouds from a volcanic eruption in Ethiopia could further aggravate pollution levels in the region. Vehicle emissions continue to be the largest contributor to Delhi’s air pollution.

According to the Air Quality Early Warning System, Delhi’s air quality is expected to remain very poor from 26 to 28 November, with levels fluctuating between “Severe” and “Very Poor” over the next six days. On Tuesday, the 24-hour average AQI stood at 352, compared to 382 on Monday, yet the city continues to struggle with deteriorating air conditions.

Ethiopian Volcano Adds to Pollution Woes

The Dhala volcano in the Afar region of Ethiopia erupted on Sunday, sending ash plumes up to 14 kilometers high. The ash has drifted eastwards towards the Red Sea, with Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) models indicating that the impact on India, including Gujarat, Delhi-NCR, Rajasthan, Punjab, and Haryana, was minimal by Tuesday evening.

Local Sources of Pollution

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), vehicle emissions contributed 19.6% of Delhi’s pollution on Tuesday, making it the largest single source, while crop residue burning accounted for 1.5%. For Wednesday, contributions are expected to be 21.1% from vehicles and 1.5% from stubble burning. Satellite imagery revealed 522 fire incidents in fields across Uttar Pradesh, alongside a few in Punjab and Haryana.

AQI at Specific Locations

Among 38 monitoring stations in Delhi, Rohini recorded the highest AQI at 401, entering the “Severe” category. On Monday, 15 stations were in the Severe category. For reference, AQI levels are categorized as:

• 0–50: Good
• 51–100: Satisfactory
• 101–200: Moderate
• 201–300: Poor
• 301–400: Very Poor
• 401–500: Severe

Weather Conditions

Tuesday saw Delhi registering its lowest maximum temperature of the season at 25.1°C, while the minimum temperature was 9°C, slightly below normal. IMD forecasts for Wednesday predict moderate fog, with temperatures expected around 24°C maximum and 9°C minimum.

Delhi residents are advised to limit outdoor activities, especially for vulnerable groups, and to stay updated with daily AQI forecasts until pollution levels improve.