Delhi Chokes as Air Quality Turns ‘Severe’; AQI Crosses 400 at 27 Locations

Delhi Wakes Up to Hazardous Air as AQI Crosses 400 at 27 Stations

Delhi Chokes as Air Quality Turns ‘Severe’; AQI Crosses 400 at 27 Locations

GGS NEWS

New Delhi : Delhi residents woke up to dangerously polluted air on Wednesday as the national capital’s air quality plunged into the ‘severe’ category, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossing the 400 mark at 27 monitoring stations across the city. The toxic smog reduced visibility, triggered health warnings, and renewed concerns over the worsening pollution crisis ahead of peak winter.

According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), several areas including Anand Vihar, Jahangirpuri, Mundka, Rohini, and Wazirpur recorded AQI levels well above 400, categorised as “severe plus.” At these levels, air pollution can affect even healthy individuals and poses serious risks to those with respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

Early morning visuals from across the capital showed a thick layer of smog enveloping roads, residential colonies, and public spaces. Commuters reported eye irritation, coughing, breathlessness, and a strong smell of pollutants in the air. Doctors have advised people, especially children, the elderly, and those with existing health conditions, to limit outdoor activities and wear protective masks if stepping out is unavoidable.

Experts attribute the sharp spike in pollution levels to a combination of factors, including calm wind conditions, low temperatures, and high moisture content in the air, which trap pollutants close to the ground. Vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, construction dust, and the lingering impact of stubble burning in neighbouring states have further aggravated the situation.

The Delhi government has already implemented measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), including restrictions on construction activities, increased use of public transport, and advisories against the use of diesel generators. Authorities have also urged offices to allow work-from-home options where possible and requested citizens to reduce the use of private vehicles.

Environmentalists warn that such episodes of extreme pollution are becoming more frequent and prolonged each winter, highlighting the urgent need for long-term solutions. “Emergency measures provide temporary relief, but sustained action on clean energy, public transport, and regional coordination is essential,” an air quality expert said.

Meanwhile, schools have been advised to limit outdoor activities, and parents remain concerned about children’s exposure to toxic air. With weather conditions expected to remain unfavourable for dispersion over the next few days, authorities have cautioned that air quality may continue to remain in the severe category.

As Delhi once again grapples with hazardous air, the recurring crisis underscores the growing public health challenge posed by pollution and the pressing need for coordinated action at both the state and national levels.

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