The national capital woke up to a thick layer of smog on Monday morning, as air quality plummeted to ‘severe’ levels in multiple areas of Delhi. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), RK Puram recorded a severe air quality index (AQI) of 419 at 7:00 a.m.
Other areas were not spared from the hazardous conditions, with ITO recording an AQI of 435, Dwarka Sector 8 at 402, Jahangirpuri at 437, and Ashok Vihar at a staggering 455, all falling within the severe category. Concerns over the impact on health are rising, with local residents expressing distress.
Dr. RK Sharma, a resident, highlighted the deteriorating situation, stating, “The pollution level in Delhi is worse, causing damage to the lungs. I experience slight discomfort due to pollution, so people should avoid morning walks and cycling as the pollution level is high.”
The Air Quality Index (AQI) categorizes air quality on a scale from 0 to 500, with values above 400 considered ‘severe.’ The recent surge in AQI levels coincided with the relaxation of restrictions by the Centre last Saturday, allowing construction activities and the entry of polluting trucks into Delhi. However, restrictions under stages 1 to 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) remained in place.
Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai addressed the concerning situation in a meeting on Friday, acknowledging the increase in pollution. “Some increase in the pollution of Delhi has been noted. We had a meeting regarding it. The incidents of stubble burning are very few now, and the level of pollution is still increasing,” Rai stated. Scientists identified vehicle pollution (36%) and biomass burning as significant contributors to the escalating pollution levels.
The deteriorating air quality has prompted health advisories, urging residents to take precautions and avoid outdoor activities. As Delhi grapples with the severe smog, efforts are underway to identify and address the key factors contributing to the pollution crisis.
