Delhi Shrouded in Toxic Haze as Air Quality Dips to 'Very Poor' Levels

The National Capital Delhi's air quality levels continued to remain at alarming lows. According to the latest data from the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR)-India, the overall air quality in Delhi remained 'very poor' with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 399.

Several areas in the national capital, including Delhi University, Delhi Airport at Terminal 3, Noida, and IIT Delhi, reported even higher AQI levels, signifying severe pollution, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data.

On Tuesday morning, Anand Vihar measured an AQI of 432, RK Puram recorded 437, Punjabi Bagh registered 439, and New Moti Bagh showed a reading of 410, all of which fall under the 'severe' category. Meanwhile, Gurugram experienced a slight improvement, falling into the 'poor' category with an AQI of 399 in Sector 51.

The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has observed a significant surge in pollution levels in the national capital. This spike occurred between November 1 and November 5, coinciding with the period when instances of stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana escalated, as per the committee's findings.

The Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) reported a staggering 4,160 farm fires in northern India, marking a significant increase in instances of stubble burning and exacerbating the pollution crisis in Delhi.

In response to the worsening situation and anticipation of further deterioration post-Diwali, the Delhi government has reintroduced the odd-even system after a four-year hiatus. Under this system, vehicles with odd and even number plates are allowed to ply on alternate days. Additionally, the Delhi government has implemented stringent restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) stage IV. These restrictions include a ban on all kinds of construction work and the entry of polluting trucks into the capital, aiming to curb pollution levels.

Separately, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted that conditions conducive to the scattering of pollutants are anticipated to occur starting Tuesday night. This weather phenomenon is influenced by an approaching western disturbance, a weather system originating from the Mediterranean region. Such disturbances often bring untimely rainfall to northwest India.

As the national capital grapples with the deteriorating air quality, residents are being urged to take precautions. The toxic air can pose serious health risks, especially for children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions. Health officials recommend limiting outdoor activities, using N95 masks when going outside, and keeping doors and windows closed to prevent indoor pollution.

Experts emphasize the need for long-term solutions to combat air pollution in Delhi, including controlling stubble burning, promoting cleaner energy sources, and enhancing public transportation.