LUCKNOW, Nov. 29 -- The state capital is ending November on a comparatively clearer note, with the city's latest Air Quality Index (AQI) touching 124 on Saturday, marking a sharp improvement after multiple days of 'poor' air earlier this month. Though still short of healthy levels, the decline offers relief from the spikes recorded during early November.

Officials said smoother traffic movement, intermittent winds and minor temperature shifts supported the easing. "It helps disperse suspended particles, factors that often bring short-term relief from pollution buildup," said J K Maurya, regional officer, Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board, Lucknow.

Lucknow last slipped into the 'poor' category on November 25, when the AQI touched 219...