Delhi's brief reprieve from toxic air pollution proved fleeting as the city's overall Air Quality Index (AQI) spiked to 319 on Thursday, pushing it back into the 'very poor' category. The deterioration occurred a day after Delhi recorded an AQI of 299, offering a marginal improvement and bringing the city close to the 'poor' category. However, this relief was short-lived as pollution levels rose again across several parts of the capital. As many as 36 out of 58 air quality monitoring stations reported AQI readings above 300 at 6:30 am today, with IIT Delhi recording the highest reading of 413, placing it in the 'severe' category. Jaffarpur and ITO followed closely with readings of 394 each, while Burari Crossing recorded 378. Other areas also reported high pollution levels, with Pusa Road and Dwarka recording AQI readings of 382 and 376, respectively. JNU registered 376, while Mathura Road recorded 363.
The worsening pollution levels in Delhi have been attributed to the aftermath of Diwali celebrations and stubble burning in neighboring states, which has contributed to the deterioration in air quality. Unfortunately, weather conditions are unlikely to offer much relief over the coming days, with temperatures expected to remain between 27 and 30 degrees Celsius until November 15, while minimum temperatures are likely to range between 14 and 17 degrees Celsius. The India Meteorological Department had earlier forecast no rainfall in Delhi between November 10 and 15, indicating little prospect of weather-related relief from pollution. Despite an approaching Western Disturbance, temperatures are expected to see little change.