On Thursday, Delhi had its cleanest air since September 11 last year, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) dropping to 61, which is considered ‘satisfactory.’ The improvement, the best since an AQI of 53 on September 11, is mainly due to recent rain and strong winds that cleared the air.
Dipankar Saha, former head of the Central Pollution Control Board’s (CPCB) air laboratory, said the rain was responsible for the lower AQI. “Rain helps reduce pollution by washing it away. However, this doesn’t mean the pollutants are gone forever. When the rain stops, pollution will likely come back.” Saha stressed the need for ongoing efforts to reduce emissions throughout the year.
Anumita Roychowdhury, executive director of research and advocacy at the Centre for Science and Environment, noted that this improvement is typical during the monsoon season. “Consistent and prolonged rain cleans up the air. Monsoon months usually have the cleanest air,” she said.
According to the Central Pollution Control Board, September 2023 had nine ‘satisfactory’ days and one ‘good’ day, with the AQI dropping to 45 on September 10. October had only one ‘satisfactory’ day, with an AQI of 89 on October 17. No ‘satisfactory’ days were recorded from October 18, 2023, to June 26, 2024.
The first ‘satisfactory’ day of 2024 was on June 27, with an AQI of 79. However, there have been no ‘good’ air days so far this year.
The Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi predicts that the air quality will stay ‘satisfactory’ until July 7. After that, it may vary between ‘satisfactory’ and ‘moderate’ for the following six days.
While the rain has temporarily improved air quality, experts emphasize the need for year-round efforts to reduce pollution. Maintaining cleaner air requires everyone to take action and consistently work to lower emissions.
This period of cleaner air in Delhi highlights the need for ongoing environmental responsibility to combat pollution and ensure healthier living conditions for all.