Delhi Chokes Under Thick Smog As AQI Hits ‘Severe’ Levels; Authorities Tighten Anti-Pollution Measures Ahead Of Diwali

A dense layer of smog blanketed Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) on Sunday morning as the air quality index (AQI) persisted at “very poor” levels. The pollution crisis has been driven by slowing wind speeds, lower temperatures, high moisture, and persistent pollutants, with the AQI recorded at a “severe” 363 due to heightened PM2.5 and PM10 levels. Morning temperatures hovered around 25°C.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), areas like ITO recorded an AQI of 361, while Anand Vihar and Jahangirpuri faced “severe” levels around 400. Nehru Place and nearby areas also saw thick smog, with the IGI Airport registering a “very poor” AQI of 320, the lowest in the city. The AQI ranges from “good” (0-50) to “severe” (401-500).

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Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai emphasized the next 15 days as critical, warning of intensifying pollution due to seasonal northwestern winds that could carry additional pollutants into the NCR region. With Diwali approaching, he announced plans to deploy drone technology to identify pollution sources in hotspot areas.

The city has been grappling with hazardous air quality in recent days, prompting authorities to enforce stage two of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) starting October 21. Restrictions include a ban on coal, firewood, and diesel generators, alongside a request to residents to avoid open burning of solid waste and biomass. GRAP Stage 1 measures, in effect since October 15, include mechanized street sweeping, water sprinkling, and restrictions on waste burning, coal and firewood use in eateries, and limited diesel generator operations.