In a welcome change, Delhi has just recorded its cleanest July air in over a decade. According to official data, the city’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) for the month stood at 79 — a figure considered to be in the “satisfactory” category.

For a city that often makes headlines for its air pollution, this shift has brought relief to residents. Experts point to a mix of factors that helped improve the air, including regular rainfall, cleaner industrial operations, and fewer dust storms this season. The rains have played a major role in washing away particulate matter from the air, naturally purifying the city’s atmosphere.

While Delhi has seen short-term improvements in the past, this sustained stretch of cleaner air is being seen as a positive sign. Environmental scientists have also noted a slight drop in vehicular emissions and construction activity during certain periods, which could have contributed to the better air quality.

Many Delhiites have taken to social media to share their joy — from evening walks in local parks to kids playing outdoors, the improvement in air quality has been noticed and appreciated across the city.

However, authorities and environmentalists alike caution against letting this progress create complacency. The real challenge will be to sustain this cleaner air as the weather changes. Historically, Delhi’s air tends to worsen during late autumn and winter due to stubble burning, low wind speed, and increased industrial and traffic pollution.

Still, for now, Delhi can breathe a little easier.