Delhi Air Purifier Sales Surge 70% as Air Quality Index Remains in Poor Category

Electronics retailers throughout Delhi are witnessing a significant surge in air purifier sales as residents seek protection from deteriorating air quality.

New Delhi:

As Delhi's air quality persists in the "poor" category, residents are increasingly investing in air purifiers and masks, resulting in a substantial 60-70 percent increase in sales, according to local merchants.

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported that Delhi recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 354 on Wednesday, marking the highest level this season, up from 351 on Tuesday and 345 on Monday.

With pollution levels escalating since early October, electronics stores across the capital have noted a marked increase in consumer interest and purchases of air purification devices.

"Daily, we receive at least two to three customers looking to buy purifiers, along with over 20 phone inquiries," revealed a salesperson at Chroma Odeon in Connaught Place, noting that their air purifier sales have increased by approximately 60 to 70 percent in recent weeks.

Vijendra Mohan, proprietor of Air Expert India in Indirapuram, shared, "Previously, we would sell around 10 units weekly or even monthly. Now, that number has surged to nearly 35 to 40 in just two to three days." He added, "Demand has intensified significantly this week, with more than 150 daily inquiries."

Mahajan Electronics in Raja Garden reported comparable trends.

"Sales have increased by approximately 60 percent, both through in-store purchases and online orders. Since mid-October, customers have been contacting us consistently, prompting us to increase our inventory to meet demand," a store representative explained.

Mask sales have also experienced growth throughout the city.

Rajeev Kumar, a salesperson at Apollo Pharmacy in Connaught Place, stated, "Over the past two weeks, mask sales have risen by approximately 40 percent. While most people still purchase regular masks, the demand has noticeably increased." The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has cautioned that poor air dispersion conditions are likely to continue for the next several days.

Delhi's air quality showed slight improvement on Friday morning, shifting from the "very poor" to "poor" category, with an AQI of 290 recorded at 9 am.