Delhi Air Pollution Worsens as AQI Hits 386; Thick Smog Covers City

Delhi woke up to a dense layer of smog on Saturday as the Air Quality Index (AQI) dipped to 386, placing the national capital firmly in the ‘very poor’ category. Visibility dropped sharply across several areas, with iconic landmarks like India Gate appearing to vanish behind the thick haze.

The deterioration comes a day after the city recorded an AQI of 397, reflecting persistently hazardous conditions.

Pollution Levels at Major Locations

According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), multiple monitoring stations reported AQI levels in the ‘very poor’ and ‘severe’ ranges. Key readings included:

• Ashok Vihar: 415

• Bawana: 441

• Chandni Chowk: 419

• Dwarka Sector-8: 393

• ITO: 418

• Mundka: 426

• Rohini: 423

• Siri Fort: 495

• Wazirpur: 447

Other localities across Delhi recorded AQI between 365 and 418, highlighting the widespread nature of the pollution crisis.

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GRAP Stage III Measures Implemented

In response to the rising pollution, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has enforced Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the National Capital Region. The restrictions include:

• Ban on most non-essential construction activities

• Restrictions on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles

• Suspension of in-person classes up to Class 5

• Curbs on industrial units operating on non-clean fuels

• Ban on non-emergency diesel generators

These measures aim to reduce emissions as the region struggles with deteriorating air quality.

Supreme Court Seeks Action on Stubble Burning

The Supreme Court has also taken note of the worsening conditions. It has directed the governments of Punjab and Haryana to submit a status report on steps taken to curb stubble burning, which remains a significant contributor to Delhi’s pollution levels.

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