The data, compiled from 37 of Delhi’s 40 monitoring stations, shows that air quality falls into the ‘very poor’ range at 10 locations, including Anand Vihar, Alipur, and Jahangirpuri, where AQI readings exceed 300.
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As October draws to a close, Diwali festivities are underway, yet the much-anticipated winter chill remains elusive in Delhi-NCR. A slight drop in temperature has been noted, but it’s accompanied by a troubling rise in air pollution. The Air Quality Index (AQI) for Delhi on Tuesday (October 29) was recorded at 272, placing it in the ‘poor’ category, as per Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. While this marks an improvement from Monday’s AQI of 304, pollution levels still pose significant health risks.
The data, compiled from 37 of Delhi’s 40 monitoring stations, shows that air quality falls into the ‘very poor’ range at 10 locations, including Anand Vihar, Alipur, and Jahangirpuri, where AQI readings exceed 300. At other stations, pollution levels were recorded as ‘poor,’ revealing the widespread impact on the city. Tuesday’s minimum temperature was reported at 20.3 degrees Celsius, four degrees above seasonal averages, with relative humidity at 85 percent.
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Unseasonal heat in several states
Meanwhile, the unseasonable warmth extends beyond Delhi. Rajasthan is experiencing daytime temperatures between 35 and 40.5 degrees Celsius, and in many areas, maximum and minimum temperatures are 2 to 7 degrees higher than normal. The heat persists across Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, where daytime temperatures remain unseasonably high.
In the coming days, a shift in weather is expected. The Meteorological Department predicts heavy rains and thunderstorms in Goa, Maharashtra, and Chhattisgarh, with snowfall likely in northern hill regions over the next 24 hours. This could bring cooler temperatures to Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar.
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As Delhi-NCR readies for Diwali, residents face a challenging mix of elevated pollution levels and mild temperatures. Health experts recommend precautions, especially for sensitive groups, amid the rise in pollution. The lack of seasonal cold may dampen the holiday spirit for some, yet hopes remain for cooler weather to bring relief as November approaches.
