Delhi's air quality continues to be 'severe', smog blankets city, AQI reaches 404

Delhi's air quality remained firmly in the 'very poor' category on Sunday morning, with dense smog blanketing parts of the city. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in the national capital stood at a hazardous 404 at 8 AM.

AQI and Health Implications

An AQI between 301 and 400 is categorized as 'very poor,' while readings between 401 and 450 fall into the 'severe' bracket. Prolonged exposure to such air can lead to respiratory issues, particularly among sensitive groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions.

AQI Readings Across Key Areas

The Central Pollution Control Board reported alarming AQI levels in various parts of Delhi, with some areas breaching the severe threshold:

Anand Vihar: 436
Ashok Vihar: 438
Alipur: 433
Bawana: 438
Chandni Chowk: 347
Burari: 368
Mathura Road: 336
Dwarka: 444
IGI Airport: 395
Jahangirpuri: 445
ITO: 358
Lodhi Road: 414
Mundka: 423
Mandir Marg: 411
Okhla: 422
Patparganj: 427
Punjabi Bagh: 425
Rohini: 426
Vivek Vihar: 436
Wazirpur: 441
Najafgarh: 357

Neighboring areas also recorded poor air quality, with Noida at 338 and Gurugram at 314.

Rising Concerns

The heavy smog, caused by a mix of vehicular emissions, industrial pollutants, and stagnant weather conditions, has led to reduced visibility and mounting health concerns. Experts advise residents to limit outdoor activities, use air purifiers indoors, and wear masks when stepping outside.

Meanwhile, the Delhi government has ordered the restriction on physical classes for students up to class 5. According to Section 194(1) of the Motor Vehicles Act 1988, vehicles violating the GRAP III restriction would be fined Rs 20,000.