Delhi Air Quality Dips: 'Very Poor' Levels Hit Local Pockets
Delhi's AQI hits 'very poor' levels in pockets like Uttam Nagar and Mundka, though IMD predicts a shift back to moderate conditions.
Residents of the national capital are once again facing the seasonal struggle with smog as Delhi air quality has taken a dip, with several neighborhoods recording Air Quality Index (AQI) levels that have crossed the alarming 300-mark.
Localized Spikes in Pollution
While the overall average for the city remained in the 'poor' category, the situation is far more severe in specific hotspots. According to data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the average AQI on October 29, 2026, stood at 229. However, this average masks the reality for people living in certain pockets of the city.
The most affected areas recorded 'very poor' air quality, with the following readings:
- Uttam Nagar: 339
- Mundka: 336
- Dwarka Sector 8: 307
This deterioration follows a trend seen as early as Wednesday, October 28, 2026, when Vivek Vihar recorded an AQI of 316. Experts have identified PM2.5 and PM10 as the primary pollutants contributing to this decline in air purity.
Weather Patterns and Cyclonic Influence
The sudden shift in air quality comes after a brief respite. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) noted that the city had enjoyed a four-day streak of 'moderate' air conditions, which ended on October 28.
Interestingly, current weather patterns are being influenced by larger atmospheric disturbances. The gusty winds and rainfall experienced across Delhi-NCR on Thursday morning have been attributed to the impact of cyclonic storm Arnab. On October 29, the Safdarjung weather station recorded a minimum temperature of 19.2 degrees Celsius, with the IMD forecasting cloudy skies and light to moderate rainfall for the day.
What the Forecast Says
Despite the current spikes in pollution, there is a glimmer of hope for the coming days. The Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi suggests that the air quality is likely to return to and remain in the 'moderate' category from October 29 through October 31.
Looking further ahead, the projections for the subsequent six days indicate a period of instability, with the AQI expected to fluctuate between the 'moderate' and 'poor' categories.