Delhi’s air quality deteriorates, AQI in ‘hazardous’ category

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has reported that air quality in Delhi has deteriorated to hazardous levels, with the average Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 448 as of 7 A.M. on Thursday. The situation in the National Capital Region (NCR) is also alarming, with AQI levels in Faridabad at 289, Gurugram at 370, Ghaziabad at 386, Greater Noida at 351, and Noida at 366.

In Delhi, most areas are experiencing severe pollution, with AQI readings between 400 and 500, falling into the ‘severe plus’ category.

Specific locations in Delhi have reported extremely high AQI levels, such as Anand Vihar (478), Ashok Vihar (472), Bawana (454), Burari Crossing (473), Mathura Road (467), Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range (451), Dwarka Sector 8 (460), ITO (475), Jahangirpuri (478), and Punjabi Bagh (476). Other affected areas include Nehru Nagar (485), Rohini (470), Vikas Marg (466), and Vivek Vihar (475).

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These readings reflect hazardous air quality, posing severe health risks, especially to vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues.

The worsening air pollution coincides with cold weather conditions, as Delhi-NCR experienced fluctuating humidity levels. On Wednesday, the minimum temperature in some areas was recorded above 5 degrees Celsius.

Calm winds and high humidity have led to shallow fog across parts of Delhi-NCR, further exacerbating pollution levels.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that smoggy conditions are likely to persist in the coming days, potentially accompanied by an intensifying cold wave.

This situation highlights the urgent need for pollution control measures as residents of Delhi-NCR face severe air quality and associated health risks.

The CPCB categorizes an AQI above 400 as “severe,” indicating significant health risks for all residents. Authorities have called for strict enforcement of anti-pollution measures and advised residents, particularly vulnerable populations, to limit outdoor activities.

With the intensification of winter and rising pollution levels, Delhi-NCR’s struggle against smog remains a critical issue.

(With inputs from PTI)