Delhi: Air Quality level improves slightly, SAFAR predicts relief is only temporary

After days of 'severe' and 'very poor' air quality, Delhi and its nearby areas witnessed a change on Tuesday morning with Air Quality Index (AQI) improving to the 'poor' category. According to the System of Air Quality Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), this relief from toxic air is only temporary, as the wind speed is expected to slow down from November 20. As a result, the air quality is likely to dive into the 'severe' category on Thursday, November 21.

"Pollutant accumulation leading to quick deterioration is predicted by November 20th and the probability of AQI touching the lower end of SEVERE category on 21st November is high," stated the SAFAR organisation in its advisory.

Current AQI level of Delhi

Today, the overall air quality of Delhi was recorded at 218, with PM 10 at 155 and PM 2.5 at 67. People of the city were slightly relieved and expressed happiness over the improved air quality. "The pollution levels have definitely come down. The air is much cleaner today," said a resident of the city.

READ: Marginal improvement, but air quality in Delhi remains 'poor'

READ: Delhi: Air quality in the national capital sees marginal improvement, ranks at 'Moderate'

However, earlier on Tuesday, SAFAR said to the AQI, that it predicted air quality to deteriorate in Delhi by Thursday. The probability of the AQI touching the lower end of the 'severe' category on November 21 is high, it said. "Another factor is the change in transport-level wind direction to the northwest (coming from Punjab and Haryana) and an increase in the effective fire count to 610."

READ: Dip in wind speed likely to turn Delhi-NCR's air quality severe again

SAFAR's advice to the people

The Center-run SAFAR has advised people to reduce prolonged or heavy exertion. "Take more breaks and do less intense activities." Giving clear intructions to the Asthmatics and heart patients it said in an advisory, "Asthmatics, keep medicine ready if symptoms of coughing or shortness of breath occur. Heart patients, see a doctor if you get palpitations, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue."

READ: Delhi-NCR continue to battle air pollution, AQI hovers around 482 in capital