Air pollution in Delhi-NCR has once again reached critical levels. The average AQI in the capital Delhi remains in the “very poor” category, and in several areas, it has been recorded above 400. Cold weather, fog, and weak winds are contributing to smog conditions, causing eye irritation and breathing difficulties for residents.
No Relief from Toxic Air as Delhi’s AQI Stays Alarmingly High
New Delhi: There has been no relief from air pollution in the national capital Delhi. Falling temperatures and calm winds are causing pollution levels to rise continuously. On Friday morning, a blanket of smog, along with mist and light fog, covered several parts of Delhi, reducing visibility and affecting daily life.
According to the Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi, the average Air Quality Index (AQI) in the capital was recorded at 387 on Friday morning, which falls in the "very poor" category. Experts say that seasonal conditions are preventing pollutants from dispersing, making the air even more toxic.
Weather Today: Fog, pollution and freezing temperatures; Residents face tough morning
According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) at 7 AM, the AQI crossed 400 in several areas of Delhi. Anand Vihar and Vivek Vihar recorded 442, RK Puram 447, Dwarka Sector-8 429, ITO and Mundka 409, Punjabi Bagh 418, and Jahangirpuri and Rohini 401.
In addition, Alipur recorded 306, Ashok Vihar 392, Aya Nagar 397, Bawana 384, Chandni Chowk 390, DTU 378, IGI Airport T-3 371, Lodhi Road 354, and Najafgarh 346. Many people in these areas complained of eye irritation and respiratory problems.
Pollution levels remain alarming in the NCR (National Capital Region) areas surrounding Delhi. In Ghaziabad, the AQI (Air Quality Index) was recorded at 282 in Loni, 337 in Sanjay Nagar, and 332 in Indirapuram. In Noida, the AQI was 469 in Sector-1, 428 in Sector-125, and 424 in Sector-116.
No PUC, No Fuel: Delhi targets polluting vehicles amid severe air pollution; Full story here
In Gurugram, the AQI was recorded at 393 in the NISE Gwal Pahari area and 326 in Sector-51, while it was 244 at Vikas Sadan. In Faridabad, the AQI was 186 in Sector-30, 213 in New Industrial Town, and 352 in Sector-11.
Doctors have advised children, the elderly, and people with respiratory problems to take precautions. Experts say that relief from pollution is unlikely until there is a change in the weather.
