Is Delhi's 'Very Poor' AQI Safe From Ethiopian Volcanic Ash? Experts Confirm High-Altitude Plume Is An Aviation, Not Air Quality, Threat

Delhi’s Air Quality and Volcanic Ash Concerns

Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) reached a very poor level of 362, continuing a trend of hazardous pollution conditions. Reports of volcanic ash from Ethiopia reaching Indian airspace raised public concern about whether it could worsen the situation.

Expert Clarifications

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the ash plume from the Ethiopian volcano is located at a very high altitude. It remains far above the layer where surface-level air pollution is measured, which means it poses no direct risk to Delhi’s air quality.

“The volcanic ash is a high-altitude phenomenon affecting aviation routes, not ground-level air quality,” said an IMD spokesperson.

Aviation Impacts

While harmless to human health at ground level, the volcanic plume does present challenges for aviation safety. Airlines are monitoring the situation closely, as high-altitude ash can damage aircraft engines and reduce visibility during flight.

Outlook for Delhi

Authorities expect Delhi’s AQI to remain in the “very poor” category due to local emissions and weather conditions rather than any external ash influence. The government continues to advise residents to limit outdoor activity and use protective masks when necessary.

“Local factors like vehicular fumes, stubble burning, and calm wind remain the main drivers of Delhi’s poor air,” noted an environmental expert.

Author’s summary: IMD experts confirm that Ethiopian volcanic ash remains high above Delhi and poses risks only to aviation, not to the city’s already very poor air quality.

more

Zee News on MSN Zee News on MSN — 2025-11-25

More News