Smog Returns, Delhi’s Air Quality Plunges Back to ‘Very Poor’ Levels

New Delhi — After a brief improvement, the national capital’s air quality has deteriorated once again, slipping back into the ‘Very Poor’ category as dense smog blankets the city. On Friday, the Air Quality Index (AQI) sharply rose above 300 at multiple monitoring stations, causing renewed health concerns among residents, especially vulnerable groups like children, the elderly and those with respiratory conditions.

The situation changed after authorities rolled back the strictest air-pollution curbs under GRAP Stage-IV, following a brief improvement that saw the AQI drop to the “Poor” category. Despite lifting the toughest restrictions, authorities have kept Stage-I to Stage-III measures in force to counter surging pollution.

Experts point to lower wind speeds and winter atmospheric conditions that trap pollutants near the ground, preventing dispersion and facilitating the return of smog. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for fog and low visibility, compounding the public health risk.

In response, the Delhi government and transport authorities have intensified enforcement — impounding vehicles that violate pollution norms and cracking down on emission offenders to curb toxic emissions.

With meteorological forecasts suggesting persistent adverse conditions, residents are advised to limit outdoor activities, use masks when outside, and stay informed on air quality updates. The latest developments underscore the ongoing challenge of balancing economic activity with environmental health in one of India’s most polluted capitals.