Delhi-NCR continues to remain engulfed in hazardous air as pollution levels stayed locked in the ‘severe’ category for yet another day. Multiple monitoring stations across the region recorded dangerous concentrations of particulate matter, posing serious health risks to residents.
Wazirpur and Greater Noida emerged as the worst-hit locations, with their Air Quality Index (AQI) figures crossing critical thresholds. Thick smog and a sharp drop in visibility were reported during early morning and late evening hours, adding to commuter discomfort and raising safety concerns.
Environmental experts attribute the persistent deterioration to a combination of stagnant wind conditions, dense fog, vehicular emissions, industrial activity, and pollution drifting from neighbouring regions. The winter inversion effect continues to trap pollutants close to the ground, preventing dispersion and worsening the air quality across Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram, and Faridabad.
Health specialists have warned that prolonged exposure to such severe pollution levels can trigger respiratory distress, eye irritation, asthma attacks, and long-term cardiovascular complications. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing lung conditions, are at higher risk.
Authorities have intensified restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), including curbs on non-essential construction, entry of polluting vehicles, and enhanced monitoring of industrial emissions. Schools in several areas are closely watching the situation and may extend online classes if conditions fail to improve.
Despite these measures, improvement in air quality is unlikely until wind speeds pick up or rainfall occurs. Residents have been advised to limit outdoor activities, wear masks when stepping out, use air purifiers, and follow health advisories issued by government agencies.
Delhi-NCR’s prolonged struggle with toxic air highlights the urgent need for long-term corrective action, sustainable urban planning, and stronger enforcement of pollution-control norms.
