Delhi’s air quality remained in the ‘very poor’ category on Tuesday morning, with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recording an overall AQI of 309 at 7 a.m. Although a marginal improvement from Monday’s 316, pollution levels across multiple areas continued to pose serious health hazards. Anand Vihar and Akshardham registered AQIs of 392, while ITO stood at 347—both firmly in the ‘very poor’ zone. Kartavya Path recorded 278, classified as ‘poor.’

Certain locations offered limited relief, with Lodhi Road and Tilak Marg reporting an AQI of 153, falling under the ‘moderate’ category. However, a persistent layer of haze obscured visibility, particularly during early hours, as confirmed by the India Meteorological Department. The agency forecasted clearer skies later in the day, but morning smog remained dominant, exacerbating respiratory and ocular discomfort among residents.

In response, municipal authorities intensified mitigation efforts, deploying water sprinklers and dust suppressants across major roads. Stage 2 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) continues to be enforced, prohibiting coal and firewood use and restricting diesel generators. Despite these measures, enforcement challenges and regional factors—such as stubble burning in neighboring states—have hindered significant improvement.

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Residents reported acute symptoms, including eye irritation and breathing difficulties. A foreign visitor arriving from Agra described a progressive decline in air clarity en route to Delhi, noting near-total obstruction of sunlight. Local inhabitants echoed concerns, urging immediate governmental intervention to address the escalating pollution crisis.

Health authorities have issued warnings about prolonged exposure, particularly for vulnerable groups. Medical facilities are witnessing increased cases of respiratory ailments. With winter conditions likely to trap pollutants further, sustained and coordinated action across Delhi and the National Capital Region is imperative to avert a public health emergency.

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