AQI crosses 400 in several areas; Check area-wise pollution levels
Residents across Delhi-NCR are experiencing problems such as irritation in their eyes and throat, difficulty in breathing and reduced visibility due to heavy smoke and pollution.
The national capital and surrounding NCR cities are grappling with a serious air pollution crisis, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossing 400 in several areas. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI in Akshardham reached 409, falling under the ‘Severe’ category.
AQI in another location
Alarming figures were also recorded in other important districts such as India Gate with an AQI of 319, Lodhi Road with an AQI of 325 and Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram and Faridabad with an AQI of ‘Very Poor’.
Residents across Delhi-NCR are experiencing problems such as irritation in their eyes and throat, difficulty in breathing and reduced visibility due to heavy smoke and pollution. Authorities have started using truck-mounted water sprinklers to control dust in various parts of the city, but the situation remains grim.
IMD estimate
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) attributed the worsening pollution to multiple weather effects. As cyclone ‘Michaung’ (locally called Montha) makes landfall in Andhra Pradesh, Western Disturbance remains active in the northern hills. As a result, Delhi and nearby areas are experiencing cloudy skies, fog and light rain in some areas.
IMD predicts that the maximum temperature will remain between 27°C to 29°C in Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram, Faridabad and Greater Noida, while the minimum temperature may vary between 17°C to 21°C. Experts say that the main reason for the increased pollution is the decrease in wind speed from 14 km/h to about 10 km/h, preventing the dispersion of pollutants.
Slow air movement allows dust and smoke particles to remain close to the ground, contributing to serious pollution. Although IMD has not issued a major fog alert, dense haze and fog are expected to continue in the morning and daylight hours, further worsening the situation.
Health concerns rise in Delhi-NCR
The combination of weather conditions and pollution has created a health emergency in Delhi and surrounding areas; Residents are struggling to cope with poor air quality. Authorities are taking measures to control the situation, but the crisis is not over yet
