AQI in Delhi reaches near 500 as pollution covers the national capital

Air pollution in Delhi escalated into a full-blown crisis on Sunday as a thick, toxic layer of smog blanketed the National Capital Region (NCR). The Air Quality Index (AQI), which had already slipped into the 'Severe' category on Saturday, worsened overnight, surging to 461 at 7 a.m. on Sunday, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). This rise is attributed to adverse meteorological conditions and persistent local pollution sources. All 40 monitoring stations across the city recorded readings in the 'Severe' category, with multiple locations like Rohini (499), Bawana (498), and Vivek Vihar (495) approaching the maximum measurable limit of 500. Even relatively greener areas like Lodhi Road (400) and Najafgarh (404) failed to escape the toxic grip, underscoring the pervasive nature of the pollution.

This air quality level is considered 'Hazardous,' posing a significant risk of respiratory distress and illness even for healthy individuals, while seriously impacting those with pre-existing conditions. Visibility across the city has been severely impaired, bringing daily life to a near standstill in many areas. This recurring annual environmental crisis has once again created a serious public health emergency. The severity led the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to invoke Stage IV (Severe+ category) of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in the entire NCR, bringing in the strictest emergency measures.

Given the gravity of the situation, residents are strongly advised to stay indoors, avoid strenuous physical activity, and use N95 masks if they must go outside. Under the enforced GRAP-IV curbs, non-essential construction and demolition activities are banned, the entry of BS-IV trucks (except those carrying essential commodities) into Delhi is restricted, and schools have been directed to conduct classes for students up to Class IX and Class XI in a hybrid (online/physical) mode. Authorities are ensuring strict compliance with these emergency measures to combat the worsening air pollution.