Delhi Chokes Under Dense Smog as Air Quality Remains in ‘Severe’ Category
New Delhi: The national capital woke up to a thick blanket of smog on Monday morning as air pollution levels continued to worsen, pushing the Air Quality Index (AQI) deep into the ‘Severe’ category. Several parts of the city reported extremely poor visibility, causing inconvenience to commuters and residents alike.
According to data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s AQI touched 455, indicating hazardous air conditions that pose serious health risks, especially for children, the elderly, and people with respiratory illnesses.
Low Visibility Disrupts Daily Life
Dense smog covered large portions of the city, significantly reducing visibility on major roads and highways. Areas near Akshardham Temple in Pandav Nagar, Dhaula Kuan, and the Delhi–Meerut Expressway were among the worst affected, with buildings and landmarks barely visible in the early morning hours.
Motorists and pedestrians reported difficulty navigating through fog-laden streets as a cold wave further intensified winter conditions in the capital.
Air Quality Deteriorates Further
Delhi’s air quality saw a sharp decline over the past 24 hours. On Sunday, the city recorded an AQI of 444, slipping from the ‘Very Poor’ category into the ‘Severe’ zone. Neighbouring cities also witnessed worsening pollution levels — Noida recorded an AQI of 430, while Gurugram stood at 378, both reflecting unhealthy conditions.
GRAP Stage IV Measures Enforced
In response to the alarming pollution levels, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has enforced the strictest measures under Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR.
The restrictions include:
- Ban on construction and demolition activities
- Entry restrictions on polluting vehicles
- Hybrid mode for schools and offices
- Increased monitoring of industrial emissions
Authorities urged residents to limit outdoor activities and follow health advisories until air quality improves.
Cold Wave Adds to Winter Woes
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that Delhi’s maximum temperature on Sunday settled at 22.7°C, slightly above normal, while the minimum temperature dropped to 5.3°C, intensifying cold wave conditions.
Weather officials said stagnant winds and low temperatures are contributing to the accumulation of pollutants, with little improvement expected in the immediate future.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Bharatiya News staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
