New Delhi: The air quality in Delhi has sharply declined, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 341 at 6 am on Sunday, placing it in the ‘very poor’ category, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
The situation is alarming across various areas in the city, with Anand Vihar recording a staggering 418, followed by Vivek Vihar at 407 and Wazirpur at 401. Other areas like Ashok Vihar, Jahangirpuri, and Punjabi Bagh also reported AQI levels of 384, 372, and 375, respectively, all categorized as ‘very poor.’ Patparganj recorded 367, while Bawana and Rohini had AQI levels of 338 and 367, respectively. R K Puram stands at 358, and Najafgarh, though lower, still has a ‘poor’ AQI of 282.
The rise in AQI levels is linked to unfavorable weather conditions, including calm winds, low ventilation, and smog, which hinder the dispersion of pollutants and trap them over the city.
Additionally, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for moderate to dense fog on Sunday. Despite the foggy conditions, temperatures are expected to remain mild, with a maximum of 24 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 9 degrees Celsius.
The IMD noted a transition in temperatures from the previous winter range of 22-26 degrees Celsius for highs and 10-12 degrees Celsius for lows, indicating the arrival of warmer weather.
In response to the escalating pollution levels, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) implemented Stage III restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) on January 29. These measures aim to reduce air pollution by tightening regulations on construction, vehicle emissions, and other pollution sources.
As Delhi grapples with the challenges of poor air quality and changing weather, residents are advised to take precautions such as limiting outdoor activities, wearing masks, and using air purifiers to reduce health risks related to the worsening air quality.