NCR breathes easier: AQI dips to orange, winds bring respite from pollution grip

Noida (The Uttam Hindu): After facing severe pollution levels for eight consecutive days in the National Capital Region (NCR), the Air Quality Index (AQI) registered a slight improvement on Tuesday due to increased wind speed. The AQI in many areas of Noida, Ghaziabad and Delhi fluctuated between 'Orange' and 'Red'. However, experts have termed it as a temporary relief. PM2.5 levels declined in Noida, many stations were recorded in the Orange category. According to the Pollution Control Board data, the AQI remained in the 'Red' category for eight consecutive days since the beginning of December 2025.

On December 1, the PM2.5 level in Noida was recorded at 321, on December 2 it was 395, on December 3 it was 365, and it remained above 300 for most of the days till December 6. On December 9, the index saw a decline for the first time and the PM2.5 level came down to 285, which falls in the 'orange' category.

In Noida, Wednesday's AQI was recorded at 296 in Sector 125, 236 in Sector 62, and 294 in Sector 116. This means that the air quality at most stations has reached the very poor to poor category, a welcome improvement compared to the previous eight days. Ghaziabad also saw improvement, although Loni's AQI remained in the red zone.

According to Ghaziabad data, Indirapuram recorded 249, Sanjay Nagar 231, but Loni remained in the 'severe' zone, with an AQI of 319. Several stations in Delhi are also in the 'orange' zone. Pollution levels in Delhi have also declined, with Alipur recording 263, Anand Vihar 297, Ashok Vihar 287, Aya Nagar 183, and Bawana, however, remaining in a 'severe' AQI of 320.

The weather department predicts temperatures will drop to 7 degrees, and preparations for a cold wave have begun. According to the India Meteorological Department, changes in wind direction and speed are expected to bring light fog and increased cold over the next few days.

From December 10th to 12th, temperatures in Noida-Ghaziabad are expected to remain at a maximum of 23–24°C and a minimum of 7–9°C. A cold wave alert may also be issued soon. Although the AQI has improved, the air quality remains in the "poor" category. According to the app, "The air is polluted and prolonged exposure may cause breathing problems.