Delhi Chokes As Air Quality Turns ‘Severe’ Despite Rain

Delhi woke up to ‘severe’ air quality on Tuesday, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) touching 401. Light rain overnight failed to provide relief from the smog.

The Bawana station recorded the highest AQI at 455, placing it in the “severe” category. Other areas like Rohini (451), Anand Vihar (442), and Punjabi Bagh (431) reported similar levels of pollution. In contrast, IHBAS Dilshad Garden recorded the lowest AQI at 222, categorizing it as “poor.” Shadipur registered the lowest among “very poor” areas with an air quality index of 360.

Delhi also faced a chilly morning, with temperatures dipping to 10.8°C at 5:30 AM Light rain and overcast skies added to the winter chill. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted cloudy weather with chances of light rain or drizzle. Fog warnings remain, with temperatures likely to range between 8°C and 20°C.

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Thick fog blanketed several areas, significantly reducing visibility.

The stringent Stage IV measures of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) have been in effect since December 16. However, air quality remains hazardous. GRAP Stage IV includes the strictest anti-pollution measures.

The Supreme Court recently urged Uttar Pradesh and Haryana to follow Delhi’s firecracker ban. It also stressed the need for strict enforcement of GRAP and Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016. NCR states were directed to monitor Delhi’s entry points for compliance.

Health issues are on the rise. Residents report respiratory problems and eye irritation due to the toxic air. The dense fog combined with pollution has made daily life difficult. Many are demanding stronger and faster action to tackle the crisis.