Delhi’s Air Quality Remains ‘Satisfactory’ for Third Day, Cleanest March Air Since 2020

Delhi’s air quality remained in the ‘satisfactory’ range for the third consecutive day on March 17, with an AQI of 99, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) lifted Stage-I restrictions of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the NCR on March 15. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) recorded a minimum temperature of 16.8°C, while the maximum is expected to be around 32°C. On March 15, Delhi experienced its cleanest air between January 1 and March 15 in the past three years, with the AQI dropping to 85. AQI levels are categorized from ‘good’ (0-50) to ‘severe’ (401-500).

This marks the first time since 2020 that Delhi has had ‘satisfactory’ air quality in March. The air quality is expected to stay between ‘moderate’ and ‘satisfactory’ levels in the coming days. Improved air quality indicates a positive environmental shift for the city, though weather conditions may continue to influence pollution levels.

Delhi’s Air Quality Remains ‘Satisfactory’ for Third Day, Cleanest March Air Since 2020

Delhi’s air quality remained in the ‘satisfactory’ range for the third consecutive day on Monday, March 17. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 99, which falls within the satisfactory category. This is a positive development for the city, as it marks the first time since 2020 that Delhi has experienced ‘satisfactory’ air quality in March.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has also taken proactive steps by lifting Stage-I restrictions of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the entire National Capital Region (NCR), effective March 15. These restrictions are typically enforced when pollution levels worsen, but the recent improvement in air quality has made them unnecessary for now.

Weather conditions have also played a crucial role in this improvement. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 16.8°C, with the maximum expected to reach around 32°C. Such conditions often help disperse pollutants, contributing to cleaner air.

Notably, on March 15, Delhi recorded its cleanest air day for the period between January 1 and March 15 in the last three years, with the AQI dropping to 85—well within the ‘satisfactory’ range. This is a significant improvement compared to previous years when air quality during this time was typically worse.

To better understand the AQI scale, here is a quick breakdown:

• 0-50: Good
• 51-100: Satisfactory
• 101-200: Moderate
• 201-300: Poor
• 301-400: Very Poor
• 401-500: Severe

An AQI of 99, recorded on March 17, indicates that air quality is satisfactory and poses minimal to no health risks. This improvement is a welcome relief for Delhi, a city that has long struggled with severe air pollution, particularly in winter.

The improvement in air quality can be attributed to several factors, including favorable weather conditions, reduced pollution sources, and the effective implementation of GRAP measures. GRAP is a set of emergency response actions activated in phases based on pollution severity. With air quality improving, authorities have lifted Stage-I restrictions, which included bans on certain construction activities and industrial emissions regulations.

Looking ahead, the AQI is expected to remain between ‘moderate’ and ‘satisfactory’ levels in the coming days. This is encouraging news for Delhi residents, who have endured the harmful effects of air pollution for years. However, continued efforts are essential to sustain and further improve air quality.

In conclusion, Delhi’s air quality has significantly improved in recent days, maintaining a ‘satisfactory’ AQI for three consecutive days. The removal of GRAP Stage-I restrictions and favorable weather conditions have contributed to this positive change. While this marks progress, sustained long-term efforts will be necessary to ensure lasting improvements in air quality.