Delhi’s air quality continues to be a pressing concern, as the city’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) registered at 395, placing it firmly in the ‘very poor’ category on the morning of January 20, 2026. This marks a slight reprieve after a three-day stretch of ‘severe’ air pollution, where the AQI had consistently exceeded the 400 mark. Despite the marginal improvement, the situation remains alarming, with data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) indicating that 23 monitoring stations were still in the ‘severe’ category, 14 in ‘very poor’, and 1 in ‘poor’.
Wazirpur recorded the most alarming AQI at 445, followed closely by Anand Vihar at 444 and Jahangirpuri at 443. According to CPCB classifications, an AQI between 0 and 50 is considered ‘good’, while values between 301 and 400 denote ‘very poor’, and those above 400 fall into the ‘severe’ category. The sustained high levels of pollution prompted the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to enact Stage 4 restrictions in hopes of alleviating the dire conditions.
The Air Quality Warning System has cautioned that Delhi’s air is expected to remain in the ‘very poor’ range throughout the day and could persist at similar levels over the next couple of days. Weather conditions are not providing much relief either; on this day, Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 7.2 degrees Celsius. Various monitoring stations noted specific temperatures, with Palam at 8.8 degrees, Ridge at 9.0 degrees, Ayanagar at 8.0 degrees, and Lodhi Road at 7.6 degrees, while Safdarjung marked the lowest at 7.2 degrees Celsius. The maximum temperature for the day is anticipated to reach around 24 degrees Celsius, accompanied by moderate fog that may further hinder air circulation.
As residents continue their daily routines under a hazy veil of smog, health experts stress the importance of taking precautions, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly. Although the city experienced a brief respite, the persisting pollution levels underline the urgent need for effective air quality management measures.
In conclusion, while some improvement has been observed, Delhi’s fight against air pollution is far from over. Authorities, citizens, and environmental organizations alike must remain vigilant in their efforts to improve air quality. As we navigate through these challenging environmental conditions, the focus must remain on sustainable practices that can lead to long-term solutions for cleaner air in the capital.
This article serves as a reminder of the pressing air quality issues that many urban centers face, emphasizing the necessity for ongoing public awareness and regulatory action. Keeping informed and engaged is crucial as Delhi continues to combat this critical environmental challenge.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Delhi/delhis-3-day-severe-aqi-streak-ends-air-quality-improves-to-very-poor/article70528155.ece
Category : Delhi
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Publish Date: 2026-01-20 11:11:00
