Delhi's air quality has entered the 'poor' category, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 242 on Friday morning, continuing a four-day decline. On Thursday, the 24-hour average AQI was 245, placing it firmly in the 'poor' range. Certain areas, including Bawana (310), Akshardham (369), and Anand Vihar (252), experienced 'very poor' air quality, with AQI values exceeding 300. Transport emissions were identified as the largest contributor to pollution, accounting for 18.7% of total emissions on Thursday.

The Air Quality Early Warning System forecasts that Delhi's air quality will remain in the 'poor' category through October 17, with conditions likely worsening to 'very poor' around Diwali. Meteorological conditions, including low wind speeds and mist, are contributing to the accumulation of pollutants. Experts anticipate that stubble burning, vehicular emissions, and the bursting of firecrackers will further degrade air quality during the festival.