New Delhi: After reeling under severe air pollution crisis for eight days, the national capital’s air quality improved marginally but remained in “very poor” category on Thursday, November 20. The overall air quality index (AQI) of the city was recorded at 379 at 7am as Delhi residents woke up to a slightly better air quality today.

However, the AQI at several air monitoring stations across the city was still recorded above 400, falling under the “severe category.” According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Jahangirpuri and Wazirpur recorded the highest level of AQI at 437, followed by Bawana at 419, Ashok Vihar and Mundka (416). According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), temperature in the city is expected to hover between 11 degrees Celsius and 26 degrees Celsius in the day. 

Smog Envelops Delhi

Despite the air quality improving slightly, a thick layer of smog continued to envelope the national capital, lowering the visibility. 

Meanwhile, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has revised the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), mandating schools in Delhi and nearby NCR districts to shut down during Stages 3 and 4 of the plan.

Earlier on Wednesday, the Delhi government announced that 50 per cent of its employees will work from home in view of the deteriorating air quality.

Taking to X, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai said, “To reduce pollution, Delhi government decided to implement work from home in government offices. 50% of employees will work from home.”

Besides Delhi, Jaipur and Chandigarh rank among the most polluted cities in the country on Thursday. While Delhi registered the highest air pollution levels, Jaipur and Chandigarh followed with Air Quality Index readings of 235 and 233, respectively, both classified as “poor.” Meanwhile, Aizawl and Guwahati logged the lowest pollution levels as AQI readings stood at 32 and 42 at 7 am.