Delhi air improves slightly to 304, GRAP-3 restrictions continue

A slight improvement in air quality was witnessed in the national capital on Tuesday morning. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, the city's Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 304 at 8:10 am. However, despite this improvement, the air quality remains in the 'very poor' category.

On Monday, the day after Diwali, pollution had reached its peak and with the AQI crossing 400 at several places, the air had entered the 'severe' category. Although Tuesday morning's figure was somewhat lower compared to Monday, pollution in several areas of Delhi is still near dangerous levels.

In the morning, Pusa and Chandni Chowk recorded the highest AQI at 395. Apart from this, the AQI was 382 in Jafarpur, 380 in Commonwealth Sports Complex, 370 in Talkatora Garden, 365 in Siri Fort, and 348 in Punjabi Bagh. The figure was recorded at 301 in Rohini and 303 in Burari.

According to the Meteorological Department, there is little hope of relief for Delhi residents in the coming days. No possibility of rain has been predicted in the city between November 10 and 15. A western disturbance is becoming active in the western Himalayan region from Tuesday night, but there are no chances of rain in the capital. Along with this, wind speeds of 5 to 15 kilometers per hour will continue to hinder the reduction of pollution.

In view of the poor air condition, the Commission for Air Quality Management has kept the third phase of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) enforced in Delhi-NCR. The administration has been ordered to ensure strict compliance with anti-pollution rules in Delhi as well as adjoining areas of Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan.

Key developments

• Delhi's AQI improved to 304 on Tuesday morning
• Pollution levels still at 395 in areas like Pusa and Chandni Chowk
• Met department forecasts no rain until November 15
• GRAP-3 restrictions continue in Delhi-NCR