West Asia dust storm pushes Delhi's AQI to 'poor', reversing monsoon clean air
New Delhi: The national capital's air quality has deteriorated sharply, slipping into the 'poor' category just days after monsoon showers had given Delhi its cleanest air in nearly three years. The decline is attributed to a dust storm from West Asia, with long-range winds carrying transnational dust from storm activity in Afghanistan, Iran and Pakistan, according to the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM).
On Sunday, Delhi's daily average Air Quality Index (AQI) climbed to 261, marking the first 'poor' air day of this month. By 9 am on Monday, the city's AQI touched 294, inching towards the 'very poor' category. Across the National Capital Region, Greater Noida recorded an AQI of 352 ('very poor'), while Gurgaon stood at 271 and Noida at 261.
The sharp deterioration comes less than a week after Delhi recorded its first 'good' air day of the year on July 23, when the AQI was 42, thanks to heavy monsoon rains. The CAQM noted that strong winds over the Indo-Gangetic plain also contributed to the spike in pollution levels.
As of Monday morning, the city's air quality remains in the 'poor' category, with authorities advising residents to limit outdoor activities and use masks if necessary. The situation is expected to persist until the dust storm subsides and wind patterns change.
