Delhi air quality slides back to ‘very poor’, relief unlikely before midweek

Delhi’s air quality worsened again on Sunday, slipping back into the “very poor” category after a brief improvement.

Weather conditions have turned unfavourable, limiting pollutant dispersion and reversing gains seen earlier this week.

Health risks are rising again, especially for children, elderly people and those with respiratory conditions.

Residents across the National Capital Region are affected, with no sustained relief expected for several days.

Delhi’s short-lived escape from choking air pollution came to an end on Sunday as air quality deteriorated sharply, pushing the city back into the “very poor” zone. Official monitoring data shows that the improvement driven by strong surface winds last week has faded, and pollution levels are once again climbing across large parts of the capital.

Pollution rebounds after brief weather-led relief

According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s average air quality index worsened over the past 24 hours, reversing the gains recorded just days earlier. The improvement had followed a spell of higher wind speeds, which helped disperse accumulated pollutants.

However, calmer winds and stable atmospheric conditions have returned, allowing emissions from traffic, construction activity and local sources to build up near the surface.

Forecast offers little comfort

Weather and air quality forecasts reviewed by pollution authorities indicate that Delhi’s air is likely to remain in the “very poor” category until at least midweek. Officials have cautioned that no major weather system is expected in the immediate term to significantly improve dispersion.

Experts say that without strong winds or rain, pollution levels can fluctuate daily but are unlikely to shift into safer categories.

Health impact back in focus

Doctors and public health experts warn that “very poor” air quality can trigger breathing discomfort even in healthy people, while those with asthma, heart disease or chronic lung conditions face a higher risk of complications.

Parents have also been advised to limit outdoor activities for children, particularly during early morning and late evening hours when pollution levels tend to spike.

What authorities are doing

Officials involved in air quality management said standard pollution-control measures remain in place, including restrictions on dust-generating activities and close monitoring of local emission sources. Any escalation in curbs would depend on how sharply pollution levels rise in the coming days.

They stressed that air quality remains weather-dependent, making short-term improvements fragile during winter months.