Air Quality Plunges to ‘Severe Plus’ Category
Air quality across several hotspots in Delhi-NCR deteriorated sharply, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) surpassing 500, marking one of the season’s worst pollution days. Thick smog enveloped the region throughout the morning and evening hours, significantly reducing visibility and increasing discomfort for residents.
Pollution Hotspots Record Hazardous Levels
Localities such as Anand Vihar, Jahangirpuri, Wazirpur, and Noida Sector 62 reported AQI figures well above the 500 mark. In many pockets, pollution monitors showed values exceeding the measurable limit, indicating extremely toxic air. Authorities attribute the spike to stagnant wind movement, increased local emissions, and seasonal inversion effects.
Dense Smog Blankets the Region
A heavy layer of smog, compounded by falling night temperatures, trapped pollutants closer to the surface. Early morning commuters faced difficulty navigating through the haze, while health experts warned of heightened exposure to PM2.5 particles, which pose serious respiratory risks.
Health Concerns on the Rise
Hospitals reported an increase in cases of breathlessness, eye irritation, asthma flare-ups, and coughing, especially among children and elderly individuals. Doctors advise limiting outdoor activities, wearing protective masks, and using air purifiers indoors whenever possible.
Authorities on High Alert
Environmental agencies continue to monitor the situation closely. While emergency measures under the GRAP framework remain in force, experts believe that improved wind speed and atmospheric dispersion are necessary for any significant relief. Until then, pollution levels are expected to remain in the severe zone.
Winter Worsens the Crisis
With temperatures dropping rapidly, the likelihood of prolonged pollution episodes increases. Meteorological predictions indicate low wind speeds over the coming days, suggesting that the smog blanket may persist unless weather patterns shift.
Delhi-NCR residents have been urged to take necessary precautions as the region grapples with hazardous air and harsh winter conditions simultaneously.
