Delhi's air quality improves to 'poor', but the respite could be short-lived

National capital Delhi and adjoining areas on Saturday morning woke up to clear skies and improved air quality compared to previous days. The average air quality in Delhi at 9 am on Saturday was 227, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data.

CREDIT: BCCL

Delhi's air quality improves to poor

This is a further improvement from the AQI of 281 on Friday morning. For the past two days, the air quality in Delhi was in the 'poor' category, after being in the 'very poor' chart for four consecutive days this week.

An AQI between zero and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'.

How did Delhi's air quality improve

According to the Air Quality Early Warning System (AQEWS), Delhi's AQI improved to the "poor" category, driven by a sudden change in wind direction and speed. The wind shifted from northwest to east and southeast. Similar wind conditions are expected over the next one to two days.

CREDIT: BCCL

Delhi's AQI to touch 400 by October 31

However, the improvement in air quality is predicted to be short-lived, and according to AQEWS, pollution levels may rise again in three to four days due to unfavourable weather conditions, with the AQI likely to touch 400 by October 31.

A combination of factors, including slow wind speeds, vehicular and industrial emissions, stubble burning in neighbouring states, and the bursting of firecrackers during Diwali contribute to the rise in air pollution levels in and around Delhi during this time of the year.

CREDIT: BCCL

Delhi launches drone mapping of pollution hotspots

On Friday, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai conducted a pilot demonstration of drone-based services to identify sources of pollution in the hotspot areas in the national capital.

"The use of drones marks a pioneering step in pollution monitoring in Delhi. Drones will operate within a 200-metre range, capturing images of pollution sources which will then be analysed for targeted action. The drones will fly at an altitude of 120 metres, allowing for effective monitoring of areas prone to high pollution levels," Rai said.

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