Delhi and its surrounding areas are currently experiencing a much-needed breath of fresh air, thanks to consistent rainfall in August. This downpour has significantly improved the air quality in the city, bringing the Air Quality Index (AQI) down to levels not seen in years. From August 1 to August 24, the average AQI in Delhi was recorded at 70, the lowest since 2020, when it averaged 64 during the pandemic lockdowns.
In comparison, last year’s August AQI averaged 116, while in 2022, it was 93, and in 2021, the number stood at 107. This drastic improvement in air quality is largely attributed to the heavy rainfall Delhi has experienced this month. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Delhi had 21 rainy days by August 23. The last time the city saw a similar trend was in 2012, with 22 rainy days recorded during August.
With monsoon rains expected to continue into September 2024, experts believe that the air quality will likely remain at a relatively healthier level for the next few weeks.
However, the long-term outlook remains uncertain. As the winter season approaches, accompanied by the onset of stubble burning in nearby agricultural areas, the air could once again deteriorate. Sunil Dahiya, an analyst at the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), notes that the recent improvement in air quality is more a result of favorable weather conditions than any long-term efforts to cut emissions from major pollution sources like power plants, transportation, waste burning, and construction. Without systemic changes, he warns, these cleaner air conditions may not last.
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