According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossed the 300 mark at several monitoring stations. This level falls under the very poor category and poses health risks, especially for vulnerable groups.

Experts say unfavourable weather conditions triggered the sudden deterioration. Low wind speed and weak ventilation trapped pollutants near the surface. These factors prevented the dispersion of harmful particulate matter such as PM2.5 and PM10. Rising vehicular emissions and dust from construction sites added to the problem.

The Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi has warned that pollution levels will remain very poor till mid-week. Meteorologists expect only marginal improvement, depending on wind movement. Any relief is likely to be temporary.

Health experts have urged residents to take precautions. They advised children, elderly people, and those with asthma or heart conditions to avoid outdoor activities. Prolonged exposure can cause breathing problems, eye irritation, and fatigue.

Authorities have intensified pollution-control measures across the city. Officials have directed agencies to curb dust at construction sites and prevent garbage burning. Traffic police have also stepped up checks on vehicle emissions.

Environmental experts stressed the need for long-term solutions. They highlighted cleaner transport, stricter enforcement, and better urban planning as key steps. Delhi continues to face recurring pollution episodes due to a mix of emissions and weather patterns.

As winter conditions persist, residents can expect fluctuating air quality levels. Officials have advised people to follow health advisories and stay updated on daily AQI readings.

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The marginal improvement is attributed to stronger surface winds, which reached nearly 15 kmph on Sunday. Despite this temporary relief, several pockets within the region recorded alarming numbers. Wazirpur logged an AQI of 410, Bawana 419, and Jahangirpuri 414 — all falling under the ‘severe’ category. Weather conditions also indicate an early onset of winter, with Delhi registering a minimum temperature of 8.7°C on Monday, four degrees below normal and the lowest November temperature since 2022.

The Ministry of Earth Sciences’ Early Warning System predicted no significant relief and warned that AQI levels may revert to ‘severe’ by Wednesday. Currently, Stage 3 curbs under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) have been active since November 11 when the AQI touched 428.

In contrast, Ghaziabad ranked as the most polluted city in the country on Monday, becoming the only city listed in the ‘severe’ category with an AQI of 401. Areas like Loni and Sanjay Nagar recorded even higher levels at 414 and 433 respectively.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court refused to impose blanket restrictions such as a complete construction shutdown or vehicular ban, stating that livelihoods must not be jeopardized while addressing pollution.

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