NEW DELHI, Nov 4 : Delhi recorded its best air quality on Tuesday, November 4, for the day in seven years, with the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) standing at 291 – a sharp improvement from 381 in 2024, 415 in 2023, and 447 in 2022.
Officials attributed the improvement to year-round pollution control measures, including dust suppression, vehicular checks, and strict enforcement against open waste burning.
The data marks steady progress despite persistent challenges such as stubble burning in neighbouring states, high construction activity, and a growing number of registered vehicles, the press statement noted.
Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said the improvement reflected the results of a “comprehensive and coordinated” pollution control strategy. “The year-on-year comparison shows that sustained efforts are paying off. Our teams are working tirelessly to ensure cleaner air through continuous monitoring, enforcement, and dust control,” he said.
According to the Environment Department, over 1,200 enforcement teams are operating across Delhi, including 443 against open waste burning, 378 for dust control, and 578 for vehicular emissions.
Recent civic data shows 2,300 km of roads were mechanically swept in the past 24 hours, 258 construction sites inspected, and 7,580 challans issued for vehicular pollution.
Officials said the city has deployed 390 anti-smog guns, 280 water sprinklers, and 76 mechanical sweepers. Efforts are also focused on long-term behavioural change and infrastructure improvements to sustain the gains through winter.
Delhi’s geographical disadvantages and recurring stubble burning episodes continue to challenge its air quality, but this year’s numbers suggest incremental improvement. “Our aim is to make this improvement permanent – to ensure that Delhi’s air remains progressively better each year,” Sirsa said.
(UNI)
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