New Delhi, March 31, 2025: Delhi witnessed its best average Air Quality Index (AQI) for March in five years. The monthly AQI stood at 170. This marks a significant improvement over previous years. In comparison, March AQI figures were 223 in 2021, 217 in 2022, 170 in 2023, and 176 in 2024. These numbers highlight steady progress in the capital’s air quality.
The first quarter of 2025 (January-March) recorded the best air quality in half a decade. It had an average AQI of 231. This was a notable drop from 250 in 2024, 240 in 2023, 241 in 2022, and 278 in 2021.
Notably, this quarter did not witness a single day with AQI exceeding 400. This is a sharp contrast to previous years. In 2021, there were six such days, one in 2022, and three each in 2023 and 2024.
The capital saw 36 days with AQI below 200 in the first quarter. This reflects a remarkable improvement over previous years. There were 13 such days in 2021. In 2022, there were 27 days, and in 2023, there were 35 days. However, it fell slightly short of 2024, which recorded 41 such days.
Experts attribute the improved air quality to favorable meteorological conditions. Sustained efforts by various stakeholders also contribute. These include stricter pollution control measures, increased green cover, and cleaner fuel policies. Authorities have vowed to continue these measures in the coming months to further enhance Delhi’s air quality.
