This yr had cleanest Dec AQI since 2015

Delhi recorded its cleanest December since 2015, which is when comprehensive air quality data compilation began. The average Air Quality Index (AQI) for the month was 310 (classified as 'very poor'), which is a significant improvement compared to the average of 348 in December 2023.

Experts from the Delhi Pollution Control Committee attribute this improvement to favorable meteorological conditions, including more frequent western disturbances that brought rain and stronger winds to help disperse pollutants. However, officials also credit the strict enforcement of anti-pollution measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).

Despite the relative improvement, air quality still remained in the 'very poor' or 'severe' categories on many days, and it was noted that the positive trend was specific to December. The broader winter pollution crisis, including peak smog episodes, persists as a major public health challenge.

Check the newspaper clipping attached below to read the entire report: