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Delhi's Toxic Air Crisis: AQI Nears 'Severe' Amid Deepening Cold Wave

Delhi's air quality has taken a turn for the worse after showing brief improvement earlier this week. Multiple areas including Wazirpur and Bawana have slipped back into the severe pollution category with AQI levels crossing 400. The situation is compounded by a persistent cold wave and dense fog that's reducing visibility across the city. Health experts are warning residents to limit outdoor exposure and use proper masks when venturing outside.

Key Points: Delhi-NCR Air Quality Deteriorates to Severe Levels Again

  • AQI levels spike to 404 in Wazirpur and 403 in Bawana areas
  • Dense fog reduces visibility across Delhi-NCR during morning and evening
  • CAQM withdrew GRAP Stage 3 restrictions despite ongoing poor air quality
  • Health experts advise staying indoors and using proper masks outdoors
2 min read

Delhi-NCR's cold intensifies, AQI again nears 'severe' in several areas

Delhi's air quality worsens as AQI nears severe category in Wazirpur and Bawana, with cold wave and dense fog adding to residents' discomfort across the capital.

"Breathing in such an environment is deemed harmful, and health experts warn that prolonged exposure can be dangerous. - Health Experts"

New Delhi, Nov 27

The cold wave continues to tighten its grip on Delhi and neighbouring cities, and the residents are getting no relief from the toxic air.

After a slight improvement in pollution levels on Wednesday, air quality deteriorated once again early on Thursday morning.

Most parts of the city recorded an AQI between 350 and 400, falling in the 'very poor' category, while Wazirpur and Bawana slipped back into the 'severe' range. Along with the pollution, rising cold and dense fog have added to the discomfort of the people.

Delhi-NCR has been battling persistent air pollution for nearly a month. Although the last two to three days showed some signs of improvement, leading the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to withdraw GRAP Stage 3 restrictions with immediate effect on Wednesday evening, the overall air quality continues to remain in the very poor category.

Fresh data released by the Central Pollution Control Board on Thursday showed a renewed spike in pollution levels across the city. Wazirpur and Bawana emerged as the worst-affected locations, with extremely polluted air once again choking the residents.

According to CPCB figures, at 6 a.m., the AQI in Wazirpur stood at 404, while Bawana recorded 403. Other localities also reported poor conditions.

Vivek Vihar recorded an AQI of 395, Jahangirpuri 392, Anand Vihar 386, Narela 386, Burari 368, Chandni Chowk 368, Sonia Vihar 355, and RK Puram 354, all falling under the very poor category.

A thick layer of haze and fog has covered the city since morning, reducing visibility during early hours and again in the evening. Breathing in such an environment is deemed harmful, and health experts warn that prolonged exposure can be dangerous. They advise staying indoors as much as possible and stepping out only when necessary.

Experts also stress the importance of using proper masks outdoors, saying that precautions are essential in such hazardous conditions.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
The government lifted GRAP restrictions too soon. Every year same story - temporary measures, temporary relief. We need permanent solutions like better public transport and controlling stubble burning.
M
Michael C
As someone who moved to Delhi for work, this air quality is shocking. Back in Canada, we never had to think about wearing masks for pollution. Stay safe everyone and please wear N95 masks when going out.
A
Ananya R
My morning walk has become impossible. The combination of cold and pollution is unbearable. Elderly parents are suffering the most. We need better urban planning and green spaces in our cities. 🌳
S
Sarah B
While the government should do more, we also need to look at our own contribution. Carpooling, using public transport, and reducing waste burning can make a difference. Change starts with us too.
V
Vikram M
The AQI numbers are terrifying! 404 in Wazirpur? That's like smoking multiple cigarettes a day just by breathing. Construction activities continue unabated despite the situation. Where are the enforcement agencies?

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