Delhi-NCR’s AQI Breaches 400, Air Quality Deteriorates to ‘Severe’ Category
The air quality in Delhi-NCR plunged to alarming levels on Tuesday, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) breaching the 400 mark and entering the ‘severe’ category. At 7 am, Delhi recorded an overall AQI of 421, indicating hazardous air conditions.
Key areas such as Anand Vihar, Ashok Vihar, Bawana, Jahangirpuri, and Alipur reported AQI values ranging between 400 and 470, exacerbating concerns over public health. According to experts, such high levels of air pollution pose serious risks, particularly to individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, children, and the elderly.
The deteriorating air quality has been attributed to a combination of factors, including vehicular emissions, construction dust, stubble burning in neighboring states, and stagnant weather conditions that trap pollutants in the atmosphere.
In response, authorities have urged residents to take precautions, such as avoiding outdoor activities, using air purifiers indoors, and wearing masks while stepping outside. The Delhi government has also ramped up enforcement of anti-pollution measures, including restrictions on construction activities and enhanced checks on vehicular emissions.
With air quality likely to remain in the ‘severe’ zone in the coming days, environmentalists are calling for urgent action to tackle the pollution crisis and mitigate its impact on public health.