A dense smog blanket descended upon Delhi on Thursday morning, causing the Air Quality Index to reach 399, classifying the national capital’s air as ‘very poor’. This marks a slight increase from Wednesday’s AQI of 388, indicating no improvement in the prevailing hazardous atmospheric conditions.
Severe pollution levels were recorded in numerous parts of the city. Wazirpur reported the highest AQI at 477, followed by Jahangirpuri at 451 and Rohini at 449. Other areas experiencing critically high pollution included Mundka (446), Ashok Vihar (444), Punjabi Bagh (439), Bawana (438), Vivek Vihar (436), DTU (434), Nehru Nagar (431), RK Puram (423), Anand Vihar (420), Patparganj (419), Chandni Chowk (418), DU North Campus (416), Burari Crossing (414), Dwarka Sector 8 (411), and Sonia Vihar (410).
Much of the remaining city registered AQI values within the ‘very poor’ range, between 301 and 400. Significant readings were observed at ITO (400), CRRI Mathura Road (392), and Najafgarh (374). Mandir Marg, Aya Nagar, and Alipur also indicated unhealthy air quality.
Authorities have advised postponing sports competitions planned for November and December due to the critical air quality. This recommendation prioritizes public health, particularly for young individuals, during the winter smog season.
Furthermore, Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) continues to be enforced across Delhi. This involves strict regulations on construction activities, vehicular movement, and industrial operations to curb pollution and improve air quality.