Delhi’s 24-hour average AQI of 341 at 8 a.m. on Thursday, December 26, maintained the city’s air quality in the very poor category despite a downward trend. This highlights the worsening condition of Delhi’s air quality, with specific locations like R.K. Puram recording an AQI of 391, Jahangirpuri at 375, Rohini at 377, and Vivek Vihar at 372, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The air quality in certain places, such as DTU, was slightly better at 297.

The air quality in the National Capital Region (NCR) improved, mostly staying in the “moderate” range. An AQI of 249 (‘poor’) was recorded in Gurugram, 187 (‘moderate’) in Rohtak, 225 (‘poor’) in Noida, and 229 (‘poor’) in Ghaziabad.

Also Read: Linking Emission Trading Systems: Opportunities And Challenges In Global Carbon Markets

Lifting of GRAP-IV Restrictions

Earlier this week, the Graded Response Action Plan’s (GRAP) Stage IV limitations were removed. Construction operations were prohibited, non-essential polluting trucks were not allowed to enter Delhi, and school classes—aside from those of 10 and 12—had to switch to hybrid modes. As weather patterns become more conducive to better air quality, restrictions are being loosened.

Also Read: Technological Innovations In Monitoring And Reporting For Emission Trading

Cold Wave, Fog, and Visibility Challenges

With the IMD predicting moderate to thick fog throughout the day, Delhi had a low temperature of 8.4 degrees Celsius amid the continuing cold weather. It is anticipated that the highest temperatures will reach 23 degrees Celsius. Even though no planes were affected, the Delhi airport warned travelers of poor visibility procedures. These factors continue to influence Delhi’s air quality, making it more challenging to manage pollution effectively during winter conditions.

Also Read: The European Union Emissions Trading System: Lessons Learned And Future Directions