Delhi witnessed a brief moment of relief from its choking pollution crisis as strong winds and rising temperatures helped disperse toxic smog that had pushed pollution levels to nearly 100 times the prescribed safe limit.

According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), several monitoring stations across the National Capital Region recorded PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations far above safe limits earlier this week. The AQI had plunged into the “Severe+” category, making outdoor activities extremely dangerous.

However, the situation began to improve as wind speeds increased and temperatures rose, allowing suspended pollutants to dissipate. Meteorologists noted that the shift in wind direction—from calm, stagnant air to light northwesterly winds—helped flush out particulate matter trapped near the surface.

Experts caution that this relief may be temporary, as meteorological improvements are not a permanent solution. Without strict control measures on vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and stubble burning in neighbouring states, pollution levels could spike again when weather conditions turn unfavourable.

Environmentalists have urged authorities to enforce the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) and expedite long-term solutions such as clean energy adoption, public transport improvements, and agricultural residue management.

Despite the short-term improvement, Delhi’s air quality remains in the “Very Poor” category, underscoring the urgent need for sustained and systemic interventions to prevent further health and environmental damage.