**Why Delhi’s Air Quality May Become ‘Poor’ from Wednesday**
*By Snehil Singh | October 13, 2025 | 08:30 PM*
—
**What’s the Story?**
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted a decline in Delhi’s air quality as winter approaches. The city’s air quality is expected to remain in the “moderate” category on October 13 and 14, before slipping into the “poor” category for nearly a week starting October 15.
According to the IMD bulletin, “The air quality is very likely to be in the Moderate category from October 13-14. From October 15 onwards, it is expected to be in the Poor category for nearly a week.”
—
**Pollution Update: Stubble Burning Increases Slightly**
Delhi’s air quality improved slightly on Sunday, with an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 167, down from 199 on Saturday. This improvement was aided by steady winds blowing at 10-15 km/h.
However, the share of pollution from stubble burning has increased slightly, rising from 0.4% on Saturday to 0.8% on Sunday, contributing to the overall pollution levels in the city.
The Ministry of Earth Sciences’ Early Warning System also forecasts moderate air quality for October 13-14 and poor conditions from October 15 onward.
—
**Pollution Sources: Factors Behind the Spike**
Delhi’s air quality typically worsens in October due to several factors:
– Retreating monsoon rains
– Cooler temperatures
– Stubble burning in neighboring states
– Festive fireworks
Additionally, slower winds and cooler weather cause a temperature inversion, trapping pollutants near the ground. Smoke carried by north-westerly winds from Punjab and Haryana further exacerbates the situation.
On Sunday, vehicles were the largest contributors to PM2.5 pollution at 19.8%, followed by emissions from Sonipat (9.2%) and Jhajjar (5.1%).
—
**Seasonal Impact: Clear Skies and Cool Winds Expected**
The IMD has forecast clear skies and cool northwesterly winds over the coming days, with maximum temperatures expected to rise to 34°C by Wednesday.
Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa highlighted a positive trend, noting that Delhi has recorded 199 days with AQI below 200 this year — nearly double the number recorded in 2016. He called this a sign of “real improvement on the ground.”
—
As winter sets in, residents are advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions to minimize exposure to pollution, especially during periods when air quality dips into the poor category.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/delhi-air-quality-to-turn-poor-from-wednesday/story
