Delhi-NCR Air Quality Deteriorates: AQI Surpasses 300, Residents Urged to Exercise Caution

New Delhi:
The Delhi-NCR region is currently shrouded in a thick blanket of smog, with Air Quality Index (AQI) levels soaring above 300, categorizing the air as ‘Severe’. Despite recent gusty winds offering slight relief, the air quality remains dangerously poor, posing serious health risks to residents.

AQI Readings Across the Region

According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), and UP Pollution Control Board (UPPCB), the AQI levels in various parts of Delhi and NCR are alarming:

• Punjabi Bagh: 336
• RK Puram: 341
• Rohini: 364
• Shadipur: 342
• Siri Fort: 355
• Sonia Vihar: 344
• Vivek Vihar: 354
• Pusa: 365
• Mundka: 369

In Noida, Sector-125 recorded 328, Sector-1 at 347, and Sector-116 at 300, while Sector-62 saw a slightly lower 281. In Gaziabad, Indirapuram reported 257, Loni 328, and Sanjay Nagar 292.

Other critical hotspots in Delhi include: Nehru Nagar (360), Narela (342), Okhla Phase-2 (337), Patparganj (331), Najafgarh (301), Shri Aurobindo Marg (312), and North Campus, DU area (319).

Causes and Weather Impact

The persistent cold winds over the past few days have only marginally improved the air quality. Experts warn that light or moderate winds alone are insufficient to disperse pollutants completely. Significant improvement would require heavy rainfall or prolonged strong winds.

Forecast

The meteorological department predicts medium-level fog to persist over Delhi-NCR in the coming days. Temperatures are expected to range from 23–24°C (max) to 9–10°C (min), with humidity levels between 95–98%, which can trap pollutants in the atmosphere for extended periods.

Health Advisory

Authorities urge residents, especially children, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues, to limit outdoor activities, wear protective masks, and keep windows closed. Continuous monitoring and adherence to health advisories are crucial as the air quality remains in the hazardous zone.

The situation calls for urgent action from both citizens and authorities to mitigate exposure and prevent long-term health impacts.