Delhi Weather: National capital wakes up to chilly morning as AQI improves after days of ‘very poor’ air

Delhi witnessed a cold and windy start to Saturday, with weather conditions showing signs of improvement. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the national capital recorded an early morning temperature of around 10 degrees Celsius. Fog was observed during the early hours, but conditions are expected to gradually improve as the day progresses.

The IMD further stated that Delhi’s maximum temperature on Friday is likely to remain between 15°C and 17°C, while the minimum temperature is expected to hover between 8°C and 9°C.

Improving weather conditions have contributed to a noticeable decline in air pollution levels. As per data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) improved to the ‘poor’ category after remaining in the ‘very poor’ range for several days. The city recorded a daily average AQI of 222.


Among major monitoring stations, Anand Vihar registered an AQI of 248, R.K. Puram recorded 252, Rohini stood at 270, and Mundka reported 281. Chandni Chowk saw an AQI reading of 272, while ITO recorded 219. Some areas reported relatively cleaner air, with Bawana recording an AQI of 145 and Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport registering 148.

Despite the improvement in air quality, a visible layer of smog persisted in parts of the city. At India Gate, Republic Day rehearsal activities continued as scheduled. Security personnel and parade participants carried on with preparations, even as reduced visibility was noticed due to lingering smog.

In response to the improving air quality, the Sub-Committee on the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) under the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) revoked Stage-III of GRAP on Friday evening. Officials cited favourable meteorological conditions as the primary reason behind the sustained improvement in AQI levels.

However, authorities have urged citizens to strictly follow the citizen charter under Stages II and I of the existing GRAP framework to prevent air quality from deteriorating again. The government has cautioned that construction and demolition sites previously shut due to violations or non-compliance with statutory rules will not be allowed to resume work unless they receive explicit approval from the Commission.

Officials continue to monitor both weather patterns and pollution levels closely to ensure that the recent gains in air quality are maintained.

[With inputs from agencies]