Delhi's Cleanest December Air: A Meteorological Milestone

Delhi experienced its cleanest December air since the AQI system's inception in 2015, thanks to strong winds and record rainfall. The month saw improved air quality, with a significant decrease in AQI from previous years. Rainfall reached 53.5 mm, marking it as the fifth-wettest December in 122 years.

In an unprecedented meteorological development, Delhi registered its cleanest December air since the Air Quality Index (AQI) was introduced in 2015. Officials credit the improvement to robust, consistent winds and record-breaking rainfall throughout the month.

Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) revealed that the first half of December was the cleanest on record, with only one 'very poor' air day. By the month's end, Delhi's AQI dropped significantly, with Monday's index at 173, categorized as 'moderate', compared to Sunday's 225, which is considered 'poor'.

Experts attribute this favourable air quality to the effective dispersion of pollutants in early December. However, a slowdown in winds during the third week resulted in six severe air quality days due to a western disturbance. Despite the challenges, Delhi's December air quality marked a notable improvement over previous years.