Delhi's Air Quality Crisis: Smog Shrouds the Capital

Delhi's air quality plummeted to 'very poor,' with an AQI of 385. The smog affected visibility in several areas. Authorities implemented GRAP-II measures to curb pollution, urging residents to minimize vehicle use and avoid dust-generating activities. A thick fog blanket worsened health risks, especially for those with respiratory issues.

On Tuesday, Delhi's air quality slipped into the 'very poor' category, recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 385, as reported by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Areas including Anand Vihar, Kalkaji, Nehru Place, and the Akshardham Temple were shrouded in a thick fog, reflecting the city's worsening air quality.

Visibility further diminished as smog enveloped the Ghazipur area. According to the CPCB, the dire air situation poses potential health risks, especially for residents with respiratory conditions. Without favorable weather changes, pollution is expected to persist. Saif, a visitor to Kartavya Path, commented on the usual breathing difficulties faced during the months of October to December, and acknowledged government efforts to tackle pollution.

In response, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) activated the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-II) in Delhi-NCR following the city's entrance into the 'very poor' AQI bracket. As outlined by the Ministry of Environment, the region's AQI is likely to remain within this category amid adverse weather conditions.

The CAQM's Sub-Committee has mandated the deployment of Stage II GRAP measures across NCR to prevent further degradation of air quality. This includes an 11-point action plan with strategies like mechanical road cleaning, intensive site inspections, and dust disposal protocols.

Officials have urged the public to use public transportation, limit personal vehicle usage, and regularly maintain vehicle air filters. Avoiding dust-generating activities and open burning of waste are additional citizen advisories. On Monday, Delhi's AQI hovered around 300, rounding off at 310 by 4:00 pm, per CAQM data.

(With inputs from agencies.)