New Delhi, 10 Dec (UNI): Swift westerly winds continued to abate pollution levels in the national capital for the second consecutive day on Wednesday, offering mild relief to city residents.
Delhi recorded an air quality index (AQI) of 259, improving slightly from the previous day’s readings of 282, while remaining in the ‘poor’ air category.
Data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) showed that strong winds gusting up to a speed of 17 kmph blew over Delhi in the last 24 hours, aiding in the dispersion of pollutants. A consistent stream of wind throughout the day also prevented the nighttime stagnation of pollutants, bringing down the AQI levels.
However, the improvement of air quality is short-lived, and is expected to push back to the ‘very poor’ category. The Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi (EWS) has projected a slide back into the “very poor” range from Thursday, with AQI expected to stay above 300 for the next few days.
The weather department forecast calmer winds until the weekend, from Thursday onwards, likely causing the pollution levels to elevate in the city.
Meanwhile, the city recorded higher temperatures with a maximum settling at 25.5 degrees Celsius (°C) on Wednesday and a minimum reaching 10 °C.
