New Delhi: A Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) study shows that Delhi’s air quality remains between ‘poor’ and ‘very poor,’ with local pollution sources, especially transport, playing a major role despite fewer farm fires. CSE’s Anumita Roychowdhury said that while farm fires contributed just 1-3 per cent to Delhi’s pollution, local sources, particularly vehicles, have a major impact.
CSE programme manager Shambhavi Shukla added that current PM2.5 levels are comparable or even worse than previous winters, driven by high traffic congestion and idling emissions. The study analysed air quality and traffic data from September 15 to October 28 ahead of Diwali’s anticipated pollution rise.
The CSE’s air quality assessment yielded the following key findings:
Rising PM2.5 levels: Delhi’s air quality has steadily worsened, with PM2.5 concentrations exceeding 100 µg/m³ by mid-October. Although levels are currently lower than in previous years, a sharp increase is expected as winter progresses. The early-winter period saw a peak PM2.5 reading of 213 µg/m³ on October 23, partially attributed to farm fires.
Increase in ‘poor’ air quality days: Winter’s onset has brought the highest number of ‘very poor’ air quality days recorded in three years, with 11 such days and an additional five ‘poor’ days. In contrast, ‘good’ air days have plummeted, decreasing from 11 in 2022 to just two in 2024.
Local and external pollution sources: Analysis by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology’s Decision Support System indicates that Delhi’s PM2.5 levels are influenced by 29 sources, including eight local ones. Vehicles emerged as the primary local contributor, responsible for over half of the pollution from within the city.
Minimal impact of farm fires: While farm fires have had a relatively lower influence this year, local sources like vehicular emissions, residential burning, and industrial activities remain dominant contributors to air pollution.
Traffic congestion: Heightened traffic congestion, particularly in the pre-Diwali period, has further aggravated pollution levels. Speed reduction congestion indices highlight severe traffic buildup, which correlates with increases in nitrogen dioxide levels, further impacting air quality.
Pollution hotspots: Despite slight improvements in areas like Mundka and Bawana, numerous pollution hotspots continue to record high PM2.5 levels. Areas such as Anand Vihar, Burari Crossing, and Jahangirpuri remain heavily polluted, with concentrations well above safe limits.
