Delhi and its surrounding regions woke up to another day of heavy smog on Saturday, as air quality in the National Capital Region (NCR) remained in the ‘severe’ category, posing significant health risks for residents. According to the Air Quality Early Warning System (EWS), the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 386, while private monitoring platform AQI.in reported a reading of 470. Experts note that exposure to this level of pollution is roughly equivalent to smoking 12 cigarettes a day, highlighting the extreme health hazards. A thick layer of haze enveloped the city, obscuring buildings and major roadways and reducing visibility across Delhi.
Persistent Pollution Prompts GRAP Stage III Measures
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has continued Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR due to the persistently high pollution levels. This stage is triggered when air quality reaches severe or hazardous levels and entails stringent restrictions, including:
- Limiting or suspending construction activities
- Controlling emissions from brick kilns and stone crushers
- Reducing output from other high-emission industrial operations
- Enforcing traffic regulations and promoting the use of public transport where possible
These measures aim to curb emissions temporarily and reduce the exposure of residents to toxic air pollutants.
AQI Across Delhi-NCR: Areas Most Affected
Several parts of Delhi recorded alarming pollution levels. The EWS reported the highest AQI readings in Wazirpur, Bawana, and Mundka, followed by Anand Vihar and Rohini. The variation in readings between platforms is due to differences in monitoring parameters, sensor locations, and environmental factors such as wind direction and humidity.
Health Impact and Advisory
Authorities have issued urgent health advisories for residents, particularly children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. Recommendations include:
- Limiting outdoor activities
- Wearing pollution masks when stepping outside
- Using air purifiers indoors
- Staying hydrated and monitoring health symptoms closely
Health experts warn that prolonged exposure to severe pollution can lead to respiratory issues such as asthma, bronchitis, and other chronic lung conditions. Cardiovascular stress is also a major concern during prolonged periods of hazardous air quality.
Causes and Regional Context
Delhi-NCR’s air quality is influenced by a combination of factors. Seasonal crop residue burning in nearby states, vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and adverse meteorological conditions such as low wind speed and temperature inversions all contribute to the worsening pollution levels. Even with GRAP measures in place, experts suggest that structural, long-term solutions, such as promoting clean energy, improving public transport, and enforcing industrial emission standards, are essential to combat chronic air pollution in the region.
Outlook
While GRAP Stage III measures temporarily reduce emissions, the overall air quality in Delhi-NCR is expected to remain hazardous until meteorological conditions improve and sustained action against major pollution sources is taken. Residents are advised to stay updated with AQI readings and follow health guidelines to minimize exposure.
The situation in Delhi serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for coordinated efforts by government authorities, industries, and citizens to address air pollution, a recurring public health challenge in the region.