Delhi’s AQI Improves, but Pollution Control Remains a Long-Term Challenge

Delhi–NCR recorded a noticeable improvement in air quality following the strict enforcement of pollution control measures ahead of Republic Day, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) improving from the “Severe” category to “Poor.” While the development provided temporary relief to residents, experts and authorities have cautioned that short-term interventions alone are insufficient to address the region’s chronic air pollution problem.

The improvement has been attributed to a combination of emergency measures and favourable meteorological conditions. Authorities implemented restrictions such as curbs on construction activities, intensified checks on vehicular emissions, regulation of industrial operations, and enhanced public transport services. Measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) were strictly enforced to ensure compliance during the high-profile national event.

In addition, light winds and changes in atmospheric conditions aided the dispersion of pollutants, contributing to the temporary decline in particulate matter concentrations. However, environmental experts have emphasised that meteorological factors often play a decisive role in such short-term improvements, making them inherently fragile and reversible.

Despite the improvement, pollution levels in the “Poor” category continue to pose health risks, particularly to vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly and those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. Public health specialists have reiterated the need for sustained preventive measures and behavioural changes to reduce long-term exposure.

Experts and policymakers have stressed that structural and long-term interventions are essential for durable air quality improvement. These include cleaner energy transitions, expansion of public transport, electric mobility, effective management of construction dust, industrial emission controls, and coordinated regional action to address stubble burning and transboundary pollution.

The recent improvement in AQI highlights the effectiveness of strict enforcement in the short run but also underscores the limitations of episodic responses. Authorities have acknowledged that lasting solutions require institutional coordination, technological upgrades and public participation. Sustained policy implementation, rather than event-driven measures, will be critical to ensuring cleaner air for Delhi–NCR in the long term.