Residents of the national capital breathed a sigh of relief as Delhi's air quality showed marked improvement, moving into the 'poor' category on Saturday morning. Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 222 around 7:00 AM, a significant change from the severe levels witnessed recently.
Winds Bring Relief, Curbs Eased
The improvement, noted since the New Year, is attributed to strong winds and favourable meteorological conditions. This positive trend prompted the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to take action on Friday. The body officially revoked the stringent GRAP Stage-3 restrictions across the Delhi-NCR region. However, authorities clarified that all anti-pollution measures under the Stages I and II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) will continue to be enforced.
A detailed look at the CPCB's monitoring network reveals a widespread improvement. Out of 37 stations across the city, 11 stations registered air quality in the 'moderate' range on January 3. The Mandir Marg station reported the best AQI at 126. While most areas were in the 'poor' band, Jahangirpuri was the sole station recording 'very poor' air with an AQI of 302.
Weather Forecast and Airport Operations
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has provided a mixed outlook. While the agency forecasts that the AQI will likely hover in the 'poor' to 'very poor' range in the coming days, it has also issued a yellow alert for dense fog on January 3 and 4. Despite this warning, operations at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport remained smooth. Visibility was reported at 1800 metres at 5:30 AM, with no disruptions to flight schedules.
The weather bulletin predicts mainly clear skies with moderate to dense fog in the morning hours. Delhi is expected to experience cold wave conditions over the next three days. Temperature ranges are projected between 17°C to 19°C (maximum) and 6°C to 8°C (minimum).
Looking Ahead
In an official press release, the CAQM confirmed the improving trend, stating that Delhi's AQI was recorded at 236 on January 2, 2026. The release further cited forecasts from IMD and IITM, predicting that air quality will remain in the poor to very poor category in the near future. The situation underscores the ongoing challenge of pollution in the capital, even as temporary meteorological relief allows for a rollback of the most severe curbs. Citizens and authorities are advised to stay updated on daily AQI bulletins and adhere to the remaining GRAP guidelines.
