Delhi Air Quality Improves to ‘Moderate’ Category After Wind Clears Pollutants

Significant Improvement in Delhi’s AQI

Delhi’s air quality showed a noticeable improvement on Saturday morning, shifting from the ‘poor’ to the ‘moderate’ category. This positive change is attributed to favorable wind conditions that helped disperse pollutants from the city’s atmosphere. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 157 at 8 am on March 29, compared to 231 at the same time on Friday.

AQI Status Across Delhi-NCR

The improvement was not limited to Delhi alone. Several parts of the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) also witnessed better air quality:

• Delhi’s 24-hour average AQI stood at 205 at 4 pm on March 28.

• Gurugram (Haryana) reported an AQI of 220.

• Noida and Greater Noida (Uttar Pradesh) recorded AQIs of 144 and 174, respectively.

• Ghaziabad’s AQI improved to 248, falling into the ‘poor’ category but showing signs of recovery.

CAQM Enforces GRAP Stage I Restrictions

Earlier this week, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) activated Stage I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR after air quality levels dropped to the ‘poor’ category. This action was based on data provided in the CPCB’s daily AQI bulletin.

Under GRAP Stage I, 27 specific measures are mandated to control air pollution. These include:

• Strict enforcement by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee and NCR Pollution Control Boards.

• Public advisories encouraging residents to:

  • Keep vehicle engines well-tuned.

  • Maintain proper tyre pressure.

  • Ensure valid pollution control certificates for their vehicles.

Authorities have urged citizens to cooperate and adhere to these guidelines to maintain the recent improvement in air quality and prevent further deterioration.