India
Delhi Air Quality Index Hits 312, Classified as Very Poor
On Monday, Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 312, the first time this season it entered the ‘very poor’ category, which ranges from 301 to 400. The reading was taken in the morning at the Safdarjung weather station, where the minimum temperature was 16.4 °C, 1.1 °C above normal. Other stations recorded minimum temperatures of 16.4 °C at Palam, 16.8 °C at Lodhi Road, 17.2 °C at the Ridge and 16.7 °C at Ayanagar. No rainfall was reported at any of the five stations during the 24 hours ending at 8:30 am.
Dr Nikhil Modi of Apollo Hospital warned people with chronic conditions to take precautions. He advised regular medication and immediate medical consultation if health deteriorates. For those with respiratory problems, he recommended staying indoors during periods of heavy pollution, especially early in the morning and at night, and wearing masks—particularly N95 masks. He also suggested keeping air‑purifying plants such as aloe vera, ivy and spider plants at home or in the office.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) noted that the 312 figure is a morning reading; the daily average will be released at 4 pm. When the AQI enters the very poor range, Delhi’s Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage 2 may be invoked. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) decides to activate Stage 2 based on real‑time air‑quality data and meteorological forecasts.
Dr Modi said that since yesterday the city has seen a surge in polluted air, leading to increased visits to his outpatient department and emergency unit by patients with lung disease and chest infections.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed the temperature readings and the absence of rainfall across the monitored stations.
Frequently asked questions
What was Delhi's AQI reading on Monday?
The morning AQI reading at Safdarjung weather station was 312, the first time this season it entered the very poor category.
What does the very poor AQI category mean?
Very poor AQI ranges from 301 to 400.
What precautions did Dr Nikhil Modi advise?
He advised regular medication, immediate medical consultation if health deteriorates, staying indoors during heavy pollution, wearing masks especially N95, and keeping air‑purifying plants such as aloe vera, ivy, and spider plants.