Delhi-NCR Battles Severe Smog As Air Quality Plunges

Delhi-NCR woke up to a thick blanket of smog on Wednesday, as air quality remained in the ‘severe’ category for the third consecutive day. The region continues to grapple with hazardous pollution levels as cold weather exacerbates the situation.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s overall Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 442 at 7:15 A.M., with several areas registering AQI levels between 400 and 500, signaling serious health risks for residents.

Reduced Visibility And Airport Impact

Visibility across the region significantly reduced, prompting authorities to implement low-visibility procedures at Delhi’s airport. With visibility dropping to just 300 meters, airlines and airport authorities took extra precautions to ensure safety.

Also Read: Allahabad HC Judge Shekhar Kumar Yadav Summoned By Collegium Over Controversial Statement

Key areas in Delhi reported alarming AQI levels, with Anand Vihar at 481, Ashok Vihar at 461, Burari Crossing at 483, and Nehru Nagar at 480. Other locations such as Alipur, Jahangirpuri, and Mundka recorded AQI levels of 443, 469, and 473, respectively, adding to the growing concern.

Poor Air Quality Extends Across NCR

Neighbouring regions in the National Capital Region (NCR) also faced poor air quality, with Haryana’s Faridabad reporting an AQI of 263, Gurugram at 392, and Uttar Pradesh’s Ghaziabad at 390. Greater Noida and Noida recorded AQI levels of 330 and 364, respectively, further indicating the widespread impact of the pollution.

The severe air pollution coincided with a cold wave gripping Delhi-NCR. The region experienced fluctuating humidity levels between 100% and 66%, adding to the intensity of the smog. In some areas, the minimum temperature was recorded above 5°C, with calm winds and high humidity contributing to shallow fog, which worsened pollution levels.

IMD Warns Of Persistent Smog And Cold Wave

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that the smoggy conditions may persist in the coming days, with the possibility of the cold wave intensifying. The department forecasts reduced visibility and chilly conditions during early mornings, further exacerbating the situation.

The hazardous air quality has raised alarms about public health. The CPCB classifies an AQI over 400 as “severe,” highlighting the serious risks to residents’ health. Authorities have called for the strict enforcement of anti-pollution measures and advised vulnerable groups, such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, to limit outdoor activities.

As winter tightens its grip on Delhi-NCR and pollution levels continue to rise, the region’s battle with smog remains a pressing concern. The situation underscores the urgent need for effective pollution control measures to safeguard public health and ensure cleaner air for residents.