Delhi is grappling with a severe decline in air quality, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) surpassing 300 in several locations, categorizing the air as ‘very poor.’ On Saturday morning, Anand Vihar reported an AQI of 334, while other areas, such as Akshardham, also recorded similar pollution levels. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), other key spots like India Gate (AQI 251), Nehru Park (209), ITO (226), Bhikaji Cama Place (273), and AIIMS (253) are facing ‘poor’ air quality.
The overall situation in Delhi has been rapidly deteriorating, with air quality monitors indicating alarming levels across the city. Mundka recorded a particularly high AQI of 377, followed by Rohini at 363 and Najafgarh at 278. This worsening air quality is being attributed to calm winds, which are allowing pollutants to accumulate, along with ongoing construction activities that are exacerbating dust pollution.
In response, the Delhi government has set up a special committee to target pollution hotspots, focusing on areas where the AQI has consistently remained above 300, including Anand Vihar, Mundka, and Punjabi Bagh. To combat the rising dust pollution, the committee plans to deploy mobile anti-smog guns in these regions.
Health experts are advising residents to limit outdoor activities and consider wearing N-95 masks to minimize exposure to the harmful pollutants, warning of potential health risks associated with prolonged exposure to such poor air quality.
