Delhi's brief clean-air break over, AQI again 'very poor'

Delhi's brief respite from toxic air proved short-lived, with the national capital's overall Air Quality Index (AQI) climbing to 319 on Thursday, pushing it back into the 'very poor' category.The deterioration comes a day after Delhi recorded an AQI of 299, offering a marginal improvement and bringing the city close to the 'poor' category.However, the relief did not last, with pollution levels rising again across several parts of the capital.As of 6.30 am today, as many as 36 of Delhi's 58 air quality monitoring stations recorded AQI readings above 300. IIT Delhi registered the highest reading at 413, placing it in the 'severe' category. Jaffarpur and ITO followed with readings of 394 each, while Burari Crossing recorded 378.Other areas also reported high pollution levels, with Pusa Road and Dwarka recording AQI readings of 382 and 376, respectively. JNU registered 376, while Mathura Road recorded 363. The national capital has been battling worsening pollution levels following Diwali, with stubble burning in neighbouring states contributing to the deterioration in air quality.Meanwhile, weather conditions are unlikely to offer much relief over the coming days.The maximum temperature is expected to remain between 27 and 30 degrees Celsius, while minimum temperatures are likely to range between 14 and 17 degrees Celsius until November 15.On Thursday, the maximum temperature is forecast to settle between 27 and 29 degrees Celsius, with the minimum likely to remain between 15 and 17 degrees Celsius.For Friday and Saturday, maximum temperatures are expected to range between 28 and 30 degrees Celsius, while minimum temperatures are likely to stay between 15 and 17 degrees Celsius.Earlier, the India Meteorological Department had forecast no rainfall in Delhi between November 10 and 15, indicating little prospect of weather-related relief from pollution.Despite an approaching Western Disturbance, temperatures were expected to see little change.- Ends