New Delhi: Air quality in Delhi showed a slight improvement on Tuesday, moving from the severe category to the very poor range, offering limited relief to residents after days of hazardous pollution.
According to official air quality data, the average air quality index in the city hovered between 330 and 350, which is still considered harmful, especially for children, the elderly and people with breathing or heart related problems. While the drop from severe levels is a positive sign, experts say the air remains unsafe for prolonged outdoor exposure.
Pollution levels improved marginally due to slight changes in wind patterns, but weather conditions continue to trap pollutants close to the ground. Cold temperatures, dense fog and low wind speed have reduced the natural dispersal of smoke and dust, keeping smog thick across large parts of the city.
Several areas in Delhi and nearby NCR towns such as Noida, Gurugram and Ghaziabad continued to record very poor air quality. Morning visibility remained low, affecting daily travel and outdoor activities.
Health experts have advised residents to limit outdoor movement, wear masks when stepping out and avoid physical exercise in open areas. Schools and parents have also been urged to take precautions for children.
Authorities said pollution control measures remain in place, including restrictions on construction activities, checks on vehicle emissions and monitoring of industrial pollution. Officials added that further action will be taken if air quality worsens again.
Weather officials have forecast that smoggy conditions may persist for the next few days. Any major improvement in air quality is expected only if stronger winds or rainfall help clear the pollution.
For now, Delhi continues to breathe unhealthy air, with only a slight pause in what has been a prolonged winter pollution crisis.