Delhi Chokes As AQI Hits ‘Severe’ Amid Cold Wave

Delhi’s air quality plummeted to the ‘severe’ category on Monday, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 403 recorded at 7:30 AM, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

Toxic Air and Dropping Temperatures

A dense fog covered the city, reducing visibility. The minimum temperature dropped to 9.2 degrees Celsius at 5:30 AM, reported the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Light rain is expected later, which may bring temporary relief from pollution.

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Several areas reported dangerously high AQI levels:

• Wazirpur: 464
• Ashok Vihar: 460
• Mundka: 446
• Burari Crossing: 445
• Anand Vihar: 443

Dwarka-Sector 8 (393) and Najafgarh (372) recorded slightly better, though still poor, air quality.

PM2.5 levels remained critically high on Sunday, with 37 out of 39 monitoring stations showing ‘severe plus’ air quality. These fine particles can penetrate deep into the lungs, causing serious health risks, especially for vulnerable groups.

Emergency Measures and Court Orders

The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage IV has been in effect since December 16. However, these measures have shown limited impact so far.

The Supreme Court has directed Haryana and Uttar Pradesh to enforce firecracker bans similar to Delhi. It also ordered strict GRAP implementation and monitoring at Delhi’s entry points.

Many residents report respiratory issues and eye irritation due to the toxic air. The combination of pollution and fog has made life difficult, with citizens demanding stronger actions to address the crisis.

Authorities hope for temporary respite with expected rain but call for long-term solutions to combat Delhi’s air pollution.