Delhi's Air Crisis Deepens: Pollution Levels Spike Amid Changing Weather

As winter settles in, pollution, particularly air quality, is worsening in Delhi. Recent studies indicate a consistent drop in air quality to a 'poor' level due to seasonal changes and increased stubble burning, despite a decline in farm fires this year.

Delhi is experiencing a worsening air quality crisis as the winter season begins, with pollution levels elevating alarmingly. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, the 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) was at 277, categorized as 'poor'.

Fourteen out of the city's 35 monitoring stations recorded 'very poor' air quality, exacerbated by emissions from transportation which contribute significantly to the problem. Despite a reported decrease in stubble burning in regions like Punjab and Haryana, the capital's air remains heavily polluted.

Professor S N Tripathi of IIT-Kanpur leads the study indicating a rise in PM2.5 concentrations, which poses serious health risks. Experts warn that pollution is expected to increase as colder, more stagnant weather intensifies its effects.

(With inputs from agencies.)