Delhi Air Quality Remains Poor; Bawana and Akshardham Hit Very Poor, Health Advisory Issued
Delhi records an AQI of 242; Bawana and Akshardham are very poor. Authorities advise precautions ahead of Diwali.
As the capital wakes up to another crisp autumn day, the air quality remains stuck in the 'poor' category for the fourth straight day, with a city-wide Air Quality Index (AQI) of 242 recorded at 5:30 a.m. Temperatures are holding steady at a cool 18.2°C, with light winds and hazy skies setting the tone ahead of Diwali. While most neighbourhoods are breathing 'poor' air—meaning moderate health concerns for sensitive groups—a few hotspots like Bawana and Akshardham have dipped into 'very poor' territory, urging extra caution for outdoor activities.
Here's your area-wise breakdown from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) this morning:
| Area | AQI | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Bawana | 310 | Very Poor |
| Akshardham | 369 | Very Poor |
| Narela | 244 | Poor |
| Anand Vihar | 252 | Poor |
| Nehru Nagar | 268 | Poor |
| JLN Stadium | 230 | Poor |
| CRRI Mathura Road | 290 | Poor |
| Okhla Phase 2 | 247 | Poor |
| Lodhi Road | 161 | Moderate |
Transport emissions topped the pollution contributors yesterday at 18.7%, per the Decision Support System, with no immediate relief in sight from the Air Quality Early Warning System forecast—expect similar 'poor' levels through the weekend, potentially worsening to 340+ by evening as stubble burning ramps up in neighbouring states.
Diwali prep is underway, but so is the fightback: The Supreme Court has greenlit only eco-friendly crackers for sale and bursting between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. on the festival day (plus 6 a.m.-7 a.m. the day before), strictly as a one-year trial. Delhi's government is gearing up with designated sales zones, patrol teams, and meetings with manufacturers, MCD, and police to enforce it—no barium nitrate or other pollutants allowed.
For now, vulnerable folks (kids, seniors, and asthmatics) should stick indoors, use masks outdoors, and keep an eye on apps like Sameer for real-time updates. Remember, AQI 201-300 spells 'poor'—unhealthy for prolonged exposure—so opt for walks in greener spots like Lodhi Road today.
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Stay safe, hydrate, and let's keep pushing for cleaner skies—Delhi's monsoon-fuelled clean streak from June to last week was a win, but winter's here. Tune in tomorrow for your next breath of fresh(ish) air!
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