Delhi's air quality persisted in the 'very poor' category on Thursday, with the city recording a 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 330, according to data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). This marks a continuation of hazardous conditions that have plagued the national capital in recent days.
Detailed AQI Readings and Monitoring Station Data
At 8 AM on Thursday, Delhi's AQI was measured at 312, indicating a marginal improvement from previous days but still firmly within the very poor range. The CPCB's Sameer app revealed that 29 monitoring stations across Delhi recorded air quality in the 'very poor' category, while nine stations fell into the 'poor' category. Nehru Nagar registered the worst air quality in the morning hours with an AQI of 382, approaching the severe threshold.
CPCB Classification and Smog Conditions
According to the CPCB's classification system, an AQI between 201 and 300 is considered 'poor', 301 to 400 is 'very poor', and 401 to 500 is 'severe'. A thick blanket of smog enveloped Delhi's morning skies, as captured in ANI visuals near the Swaminarayan Akshardham temple in Pandav Nagar. The AQI at the Akshardham temple was recorded at 377, perilously close to the severe category.
Recent Pollution Trends and Regulatory Actions
Delhi experienced three consecutive days of 'severe' air pollution over the weekend, with AQI levels exceeding 400. In response, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) imposed Stage IV restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). Following a slight improvement in AQI on Tuesday, the CAQM revoked the Stage IV curbs, though actions under Stages I, II, and III of the revised GRAP remain in effect.
Weather Forecast and IMD Alerts
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast lightning and gusty winds with speeds of 40-50 kmph for Delhi on Thursday. The weather office predicts a minimum temperature of 8°C and a maximum of 25°C, with moderate fog likely in the morning. Additionally, the IMD has issued a yellow alert for January 23, forecasting thunderstorm activity accompanied by rain, hailstorm, lightning, and gusty winds of 50-60 kmph over Delhi.
Air Quality Outlook and Historical Context
According to the Air Quality Warning System, Delhi's air quality is expected to remain in the 'poor' category from January 22 to 24. This comes amid reports that Delhi recorded its best air quality in eight years in 2025, highlighting the ongoing challenges in managing pollution levels. The city continues to brace for chilly winter days and potential drops in AQI, with authorities monitoring the situation closely.
