Air Quality in NCR Declines Sharply, Light Rain Expected on November 15

New Delhi, November 14 (Daily Kiran) : The air quality in the National Capital Region (NCR) has reached alarming levels, turning areas like Delhi, Noida, and Ghaziabad into what many are calling a “gas chamber.” Breathing has become increasingly difficult as pollution levels soar.

Recent data indicates that the Air Quality Index (AQI) in many areas is hovering between 300 and 400, with some regions exceeding the hazardous threshold of 400. Monitoring stations across Delhi report concerning pollution levels, with various areas now classified as toxic.

The highest pollution level was recorded at NIH Narela, where the AQI reached 433. Other areas, such as North Campus, Delhi University, reported an AQI of 422, followed closely by Pusa at 416 and NSUT Jaffarpur at 396. Punjabi Bagh, NSIT, Patparganj, and Okhla Phase-2 also remain in the “very poor” category, with AQI readings of 394, 388, 334, and 315, respectively. Pusa is also facing serious conditions with an AQI of 304.

The air quality in Noida and Greater Noida continues to deteriorate. In Noida’s Sector 62, the AQI has surged to 439, placing it in the “severe” category. Other sectors report AQI levels of 321 in Sector 110, 282 in Sector 39, and 278 in Sector 150.

Greater Noida is experiencing similarly poor conditions, with Knowledge Park-V registering an AQI of 357, followed by Ghodi Bachhera at 352 and Gaur Yamuna City at 317.

Ghaziabad is also grappling with severe pollution, with the AQI in New Tehsil-Loni hitting 400. Other areas report 390 in Dasna Dehat, 384 in Wave City, and 374 in Loni. While Govindpuram shows a slightly better AQI of 205, it remains above safe levels.

In light of this escalating pollution crisis, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has provided a glimmer of hope. Forecasts suggest light rain or drizzle may occur in Delhi-NCR on November 15, which could help alleviate some of the pollution levels. The IMD predicts generally cloudy skies and the possibility of light rain on that day.

However, dense fog is expected to persist from November 14 through 19, with maximum temperatures ranging from 26 to 28 degrees Celsius and minimums between 14 and 17 degrees. Humidity levels could reach as high as 95%, potentially worsening smog and fog conditions.

Currently, the thick smog and haze in the mornings are causing significant breathing difficulties for residents. Reduced visibility on the roads is also impacting vehicle speeds.