The air quality in India's capital has plunged into the 'severe' category, posing significant health risks and disrupting daily life. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported an overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of 403 for Delhi, a level considered hazardous for public health.
Severe Pollution Grips the Capital
According to the CPCB's monitoring data, numerous areas across the city are experiencing dangerous pollution levels. The situation is particularly alarming in Anand Vihar, which recorded some of the highest readings. The CPCB categorizes an AQI value between 401 and 500 as 'severe', indicating that the air pollution can affect healthy people and seriously impact those with existing diseases.
Experts have issued strong warnings, noting that prolonged exposure to such toxic smog is especially dangerous for young children, the elderly, and individuals with asthma or other respiratory illnesses. The current cold wave conditions, combined with calm winds and dense fog, are trapping pollutants close to the ground, preventing their dispersal.
Transport Chaos Amid Dense Fog
Compounding the pollution crisis, the India Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for dense fog throughout Delhi. The thick smog has drastically reduced visibility, leading to major disruptions in transport services.
Several trains were delayed at the New Delhi railway station, and a number of flights at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport were also affected. In response to the challenging conditions, the IGI Airport authorities advised passengers to check their flight status with airlines before heading to the terminal and to allow for extra travel time.
No Immediate Relief in Sight
Officials attribute the sharp decline in air quality to the prevailing weather patterns, which are expected to persist. The combination of low temperatures, stagnant winds, and fog creates a perfect scenario for pollutants to accumulate. Environmental experts caution that under these conditions, the poor air quality is likely to continue, urging residents to take necessary precautions.
The recurring severe pollution episodes highlight the ongoing environmental challenges facing the National Capital Region, especially during the winter months when meteorological conditions exacerbate the problem.
