Delhi experiences heavy rainfall, air quality improves temporarily

New Delhi: Delhi experienced heavy rainfall early Saturday, uprooting trees in several parts of the city. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted isolated to scattered rain with thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds blowing at speeds of 30-40 kmph throughout the day.

The downpour significantly improved Delhi’s air quality, which shifted from the ‘very poor’ to the ‘moderate’ category, with an overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of 189 recorded at 6 am, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

Delhi recorded its highest December rainfall this year in 15 years, contributing to the improvement in air quality. The Centre’s air quality monitoring panel, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), revoked Stage III measures of the revised Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) on Friday due to the favourable weather. However, Stages I and II of GRAP will remain in effect.

Also Read: Vertical flower farming: A new solution for urban agriculture

Despite the temporary improvement, air quality in some areas remained concerning. CPCB reported AQI levels in various parts of the city, with areas like Rohini recording an alarming AQI of 423, and Anand Vihar at 252. Other regions such as ITO (178), Shadipur (225), and Punjabi Bagh (214) recorded moderate to poor air quality.

Experts warn that as the rainfall subsides, the air quality is expected to deteriorate once again, reverting to previous levels. The city’s residents are advised to stay cautious as the weather clears in the coming days.