Delhi Grapples With Severe Air Quality Crisis, Pollution Soars To Alarming Levels; SC Urges Measures

On Thursday, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported an alarming overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of 362 for Delhi, categorizing the air quality as 'very poor.' However, pockets within the city experienced a surge, entering the 'severe' category, raising concerns.

The CPCB's latest data, recorded at 9 am, revealed serious AQI levels in various areas. R K Puram topped the list with an AQI of 416, closely followed by Jahangirpuri at 407, Punjabi Bagh at 440, and ITO at 400. Even areas like Anand Vihar, Ashok Vihar, and Patparganj, while not in the 'severe' category, recorded AQI levels at 347, 374, and 381, respectively.

In contrast, locations in the National Capital Region (NCR) fared relatively better, with Ghaziabad at 309, Gurugram at 281, Faridabad at 279, Noida at 317, and Greater Noida at 330, according to monitored data from the CPCB.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts a minimum temperature of 7.6 degrees Celsius and a maximum of 24.6 degrees Celsius on Thursday. The IMD forecasts a clear sky with mist or shallow fog in the morning and partly cloudy conditions in the evening. However, no rainfall is expected until December 19.

Visuals shared by news agencies ANI and PTI depict a grim reality in different parts of the city, with India Gate and AIIMS showcasing visible air pollution. The combined impact of pollution and weather conditions has left residents grappling with hazardous air quality.

Expressing grave concern over the situation, the Supreme Court, on Wednesday, emphasized the urgent need to address the root cause-crop burning. Responding to a batch of pleas highlighting the deteriorating air quality, a bench of justices comprising Sanjay Kishan Kaul and Sudhanshu Dhulia issued a series of directives, urging state governments to take immediate and decisive actions.

The Supreme Court's directives underscore the severity of the crisis, emphasizing the need for swift and effective measures to combat air pollution. The bench called for concerted efforts to ensure a healthier winter environment for the residents of Delhi. With the situation at a critical juncture, the spotlight is now on the authorities to implement measures that can provide respite to the city's beleaguered residents.