A dense layer of smog settled over Delhi and the National Capital Region on Saturday, pushing air pollution to worrying levels and intensifying concerns over public health as winter conditions deepen.
Delhi’s overall Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 387, placing it firmly in the inferior category. Such levels pose heightened risks for vulnerable groups, including children, senior citizens and individuals with respiratory or cardiac conditions.
Air quality across the capital has shown a consistent downward trend over the past several days. Earlier in the week, pollution remained in the ‘poor’ range, with AQI readings of 282 on Tuesday and 259 on Wednesday.
Conditions deteriorated rapidly thereafter, crossing into the ‘very poor’ bracket on Thursday and worsening further on Friday before nearing the severe threshold.
Environmental specialists attribute the decline to a mix of unfavourable weather patterns and human activity.
Low wind speeds have limited the dispersion of pollutants, while emissions from vehicles and industries, along with seasonal factors such as crop residue burning in neighbouring states, have compounded the problem.
Several Areas Record ‘Severe’ Air Quality
Official monitoring data shows that at least 18 locations across Delhi reported AQI readings above 400, categorised as severe.
Industrial and residential pockets in north and east Delhi were among the most affected, with Wazirpur, Jahangirpuri and Vivek Vihar recording some of the highest pollution levels.
Other areas, including Rohini, Anand Vihar, Ashok Vihar and parts of central Delhi, also witnessed hazardous air conditions.
Health professionals caution that extended exposure to such pollution can aggravate asthma, reduce lung capacity, strain the cardiovascular system and cause irritation to the eyes and throat.
Authorities have advised residents to limit outdoor movement, wear protective masks and follow the guidelines under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which they may tighten if air quality does not improve.
Delhi is currently experiencing cool, cloudy weather, with temperatures hovering near 10°C and expected to dip further overnight.
While conditions remain milder than peak winter norms, persistent fog during mornings and evenings has disrupted travel.
Meteorological officials warn that falling temperatures and stagnant winds later this month could further hinder pollution dispersal.
Also Read: Toxic Smog Returns To Delhi As Air Quality Plummets; Several Areas Hit Hazardous Levels
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