NEW DELHI: Delhi woke up to a damp Thursday (January 23)  morning as light rain brought some respite from the chill. However, the city continued to struggle with poor air quality and heavy fog, creating challenges for daily commuters and travelers. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 262 at 6 a.m., reflecting significant pollution levels.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted scattered light showers throughout the day. Temperatures were expected to range between 12°C and 22°C. Despite the rain, pollution levels in several parts of the city remained worryingly high.

Neighborhoods like Anand Vihar (320) and Jahangirpuri (317) recorded AQI levels in the ‘very poor’ category. Other areas, including Vivek Vihar (305), Rohini (298), and Wazirpur (289), also reported hazardous air conditions. Even regions like Patparganj (287), Pusa (268), and ITO (263) remained firmly within the ‘poor’ range, highlighting the city’s ongoing air quality crisis.

Adding to the woes, dense fog caused by low temperatures significantly reduced visibility. The Indira Gandhi International Airport experienced multiple flight delays during the early morning hours, leaving passengers inconvenienced.

While the rain briefly helped settle dust particles, experts cautioned that this effect would likely be short-lived. They emphasized the need for more consistent rain or stronger winds to clear the pollutants effectively.

The IMD has advised residents, particularly those with respiratory or heart conditions, to take necessary precautions as the current air quality poses health risks for sensitive groups.

Rain’s Role in Improving Air Quality

Experts say that light rain can momentarily improve air quality by settling dust particles in the atmosphere. However, this relief is temporary unless consistent rain or stronger winds follow to clear pollutants effectively.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) shares similar concerns, highlighting the necessity of sustained rainfall to tackle Delhi’s persistent pollution issues.

Eased GRAP Restrictions

This week, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) decided to lift Stage 3 restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) for Delhi and neighboring areas. The move came after a slight improvement in air quality levels.

The CAQM’s sub-committee reviewed data from the IMD and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) before easing Stage 4 GRAP restrictions earlier.
With these changes, construction work and industrial activities can now resume in the National Capital Region (NCR). However, authorities remain vigilant to prevent any severe decline in air quality.