Delhi struggles with poor air quality for fourth day, Mumbai records AQI of 132

The overall air quality in Delhi continued to remain poor for the fourth day on Friday while Mumbai reported poor air quality in several areas. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 249, categorising it as ‘poor’. Gurugram recorded an AQI of 252, Noida at 208, Dhirpur at 269, and Lodhi Road at 218. The air quality in Delhi remained stagnant in the ‘poor’ category on Friday, and forecasts indicate a further deterioration over the weekend.

One of the major contributors to Delhi’s worsening air quality is stubble burning in neighbouring states of Punjab, UP and Haryana. With winds blowing in from the northwest direction, Delhi’s pollution concentration is expected to rise, according to an Indian Express report. The Centre’s Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi predicts the air quality to degrade from ‘poor’ to ‘very poor’ over the weekend. The national capital region is likely to experience misty mornings until October 31, according to the Meteorological Department.

In contrast, Mumbai witnessed mixed air quality levels in different areas. While Mumbai’s overall air quality remained in the ‘moderate’ category with an AQI of 132, specific areas reported varying conditions. Vile Parle West recorded an AQI of 140, categorising it as ‘very poor’. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus registered an AQI of  301 indicating ‘very poor’ conditions. Vasai West fell into the ‘moderate’ category with an AQI of 146, and Sion improved to the ‘moderate’ category with an AQI of 191. Powai recorded an AQI of 127, while Mulund West stood at 162. Colaba reported ‘moderate’ air quality with an AQI of 144, and Borivali East was in the ‘satisfactory’ category.