Air Quality in Delhi-NCR Plummets, AQI Surpasses 400
Delhi-NCR faces severe air pollution as AQI levels exceed 400, prompting health warnings and calls for action.
New Delhi, November 3 (Daily Kiran) : Air quality in Delhi and the National Capital Region has deteriorated significantly following recent rainfall. As of November 3, the capital’s air has reached toxic levels. The weather forecast predicts clear skies from November 3 to November 8, with temperatures expected to hover between 28 to 29 degrees Celsius.
Data from the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) reveal that the Air Quality Index (AQI) in several areas has crossed the alarming threshold of 400. Alipur recorded the highest AQI at 415, while Bawana reached 409. Other areas such as Burari Crossing reported an AQI of 383, and Ashok Vihar recorded 350. In Aaya Nagar, the AQI was 310, Badarpur 300, and Burari 348.
Noida is also grappling with hazardous air quality. The claims of effective pollution control by the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) have been called into question. Reports indicate that many sectors in Noida are experiencing dangerous pollution levels. Sector 62 has an AQI of 406, while Sector 39 recorded 364, Sector 150 343, and Sector 116 270. Additionally, Sector 125 reported 250, and Sector 1 had an AQI of 201.
Local residents have expressed frustration over ongoing construction activities in Noida. Dust from road construction and repairs, combined with toxic emissions, is exacerbating the situation. There are concerns that regulations prohibiting construction work are not being enforced effectively.
In Ghaziabad, pollution levels are also on the rise, with most monitoring stations reporting AQI levels between 200 and 300. Wave City recorded an AQI of 314, while Sanjay Nagar had 306. Other areas such as Indirapuram reported 275, Vasundhara 260, Ved Vihar-Loni 212, and Loni 293.
An AQI above 400 poses serious health risks, particularly to the lungs. Doctors are advising people, especially the elderly, children, and those with respiratory conditions, to avoid outdoor activities. Wearing masks has become essential. The weather department indicates that strong winds are unlikely in the coming days, reducing the chances of a significant drop in pollution levels.
