Delhi's Air Quality Remains Poor for Second Consecutive Day, No Immediate Relief Expected

Delhi continued to grapple with poor air quality for the second consecutive day on Thursday, October 22, with forecasts suggesting that pollution levels are unlikely to improve significantly in the coming days. The persistent deterioration has raised concerns among residents as the national capital approaches the winter pollution season.

The city's air quality has been affected by a combination of vehicle emissions, construction dust, industrial activities and other pollution sources. Changing weather conditions during the transition to winter can also restrict the movement of pollutants, allowing harmful particles to accumulate near the ground.

With pollution expected to remain elevated, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has invoked Stage I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR. The measures are aimed at controlling dust from construction activities, preventing open waste burning and strengthening the enforcement of pollution-control rules.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) categorises readings between 201 and 300 as poor, a level that can cause breathing discomfort among people with prolonged exposure. Children, older adults and people suffering from respiratory or heart conditions are particularly vulnerable to the effects of polluted air. As winter approaches, lower temperatures, unfavourable wind conditions and emissions from several sources could continue to put pressure on the city's air quality. Pollution from neighbouring regions, including smoke from agricultural residue burning when winds carry it towards Delhi, can further contribute to the problem.

Residents have been advised to monitor daily AQI updates and limit strenuous outdoor activities when pollution levels are high. Using a well-fitting N95 mask outdoors and keeping indoor air as clean as possible may help reduce exposure to airborne particles. Authorities are expected to continue monitoring pollution levels and implementing preventive measures. If air quality deteriorates further, stricter restrictions may be introduced under subsequent stages of GRAP. With no immediate improvement in sight, Delhi's pollution challenge remains a concern for residents and officials alike. Sustained action to reduce emissions, control dust and enforce environmental regulations will be crucial to preventing a further deterioration in air quality in the coming weeks.

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