Delhi residents woke up to light rain on Thursday, offering temporary relief from pollution. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted thunderstorms with rain later in the day, which could help improve air quality in the coming days.

The air quality in the national capital deteriorated to the ‘poor’ category once again, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 260 on Thursday at 7 AM, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The city’s air had remained in the ‘moderate’ category for several days before worsening due to unfavourable meteorological conditions and lower wind speed affecting pollutant dispersion.

AQI Levels Across Delhi

At 7 AM, several areas in Delhi recorded AQI in the ‘poor’ and ‘very poor’ range:

  • Mundka (344), Punjabi Bagh (325), Bawana (318), Jahangirpuri (316), Ashok Vihar (300) – ‘Very Poor’ category
  • ITO (290), Anand Vihar (276), Burari Crossing (259), Patparganj (257), R K Puram (251), Shadipur (267) – ‘Poor’ category

Weather Forecast & Rain Predictions

The maximum and minimum temperatures for Thursday are expected to be 26°C and 18°C, respectively. Over the past 24 hours, minimum temperatures in Delhi-NCR have witnessed a slight rise. The IMD has forecasted rain on February 27 and 28, with maximum temperatures reaching 28°C and minimum temperatures hovering around 17°C. From March 1, misty conditions are expected to prevail across the region.

AQI Forecast & Anti-Pollution Measures

The Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi predicts that the AQI will remain in the ‘moderate’ category from February 28 to March 1. Meanwhile, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has revoked Stage II restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), keeping only Stage I measures in place. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure air quality remains under control.

Despite temporary relief from light showers, Delhi’s air pollution remains a persistent concern, with authorities urging citizens to follow recommended guidelines and take necessary precautions.