New Delhi: A dense layer of smog has descended upon Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR), driving air pollution levels into the 'very poor' category and sparking significant health concerns.
The deterioration comes as winter conditions tighten their grip on the capital, with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 387 on Saturday. This reading places the city firmly in the 'very poor' bracket, creating hazardous conditions for vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and those with existing respiratory ailments.
Air quality has seen a steady decline throughout the week, beginning at a 'poor' 282 on Tuesday and 259 on Wednesday, before deteriorating sharply to 307 on Thursday and 349 on Friday. By Saturday, conditions had edged dangerously close to the 'severe' mark. While the city-wide average remains 'very poor', large parts of the National Capital Territory are already battling 'severe' pollution levels where the AQI exceeds 400.
Official data indicates that 18 localities have breached this threshold, with Wazirpur recording the highest levels at 443, followed closely by Jahangirpuri at 439 and Vivek Vihar at 437. Other severely affected areas include Rohini and Anand Vihar at 434 each, alongside prominent hubs such as ITO and Chandni Chowk, which recorded 417 and 412 respectively.
Environmental experts attribute the spike in pollution to a combination of stagnant winds, vehicular emissions, and seasonal crop residue burning in neighbouring states. The situation is compounded by current weather conditions; Delhi is experiencing cool, cloudy weather with temperatures hovering around 10 degrees Celsius, and a minimum of 8 degrees Celsius expected overnight.
Health authorities have warned that prolonged exposure to the current air quality can aggravate asthma and reduce lung function, urging residents to limit outdoor activities and wear protective masks. Officials indicated that measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) may be intensified if the smog persists.
(Inputs from IANS)