Delhi-NCR Shrouded In Dense Smog As Air Quality Hits ‘Severe’ Levels

Delhi awoke to a heavy blanket of smog on Monday, with air quality across the National Capital Region (NCR) remaining in the ‘severe’ category, raising significant health concerns for residents.

Visibility dropped sharply in several parts of the region, affecting early morning commutes.

According to the Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi, the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 457 as of 6 AM, indicating hazardous pollution levels. Visuals from across the city showed dense haze lingering in the air, making even short-distance vision difficult.

Monitoring stations reported alarming figures. Akshardham recorded an AQI of 493, while Dwarka Sector-14 measured 469.

In Wazirpur, Rohini, and Ashok Vihar, the 24-hour average AQI touched 500, the maximum level recorded by instruments.

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) categorises air quality as ‘moderate’ (101–200), ‘poor’ (201–300), ‘very poor’ (301–400), and ‘severe’ (above 400).

Levels above 450 are termed ‘severe plus’, highlighting the extreme health hazards posed to the population.

Authorities Activate Stage-IV Measures

In response, the Commission for Air Quality Management has activated Stage-IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR to prevent further deterioration and limit public exposure to toxic air.

Under these measures, all construction and demolition work has been halted.

Authorities have ordered stone crushers, mining units, and other dust-generating operations to shut down. Authorities have tightened vehicle restrictions, particularly targeting high-emission four-wheelers on major roads, to intensify efforts to curb pollution levels.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a dense fog warning for Monday morning and forenoon hours, particularly at the Safdarjung observatory. Temperatures in the city ranged between a minimum of 8 degrees Celsius and a maximum of 23 degrees Celsius.

Authorities have advised residents to minimise outdoor activities and take necessary precautions, especially vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, as Delhi’s air quality plunges well beyond critical limits.

Also Read: Delhi Suffocates As Toxic Smog Pushes Air To Emergency Levels