Toxic Air Returns: Delhi Air Quality Deteriorates Sharply to ‘Very Poor’; Several Zones Hit ‘Severe’
Weak winds trap deadly pollutants, crisis deepens.
Delhi’s air quality worsened significantly on Sunday, with the overall AQI surging to 366 in the “very poor” category, a steep rise from 303 recorded just a day prior, according to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. Calm northwest winds dropping below 8 kmph during evening and night hours failed to disperse pollutants effectively, creating a stagnant layer of smog over the capital. PM2.5 levels reached 189.6 micrograms per cubic metre—well above the safe limit of 60—while PM10 stood at 316 µg/m³, against a norm of 100. These fine particles pose serious health risks, causing respiratory distress and aggravating conditions in vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and those with heart or lung ailments. Three monitoring stations, including Wazirpur at 413, entered the “severe” zone above 400, while 28 others registered “very poor” readings over 300.
The National Capital Region (NCR) faced a similar pollution onslaught, with Ghaziabad reporting an AQI of 351, Gurugram 357, Noida 348, and Greater Noida 340—all firmly in the “very poor” bracket. Faridabad offered slight relief at 215 (“poor”), but beyond the NCR, Haryana’s Dharuhera recorded a hazardous 434, and Bhiwandi in Maharashtra hit 376. The Air Quality Early Warning System (AQEWS) attributed the buildup to a low ventilation index under 6,000 m²/s and wind speeds below 10 kmph, conditions that prevent natural cleansing of the atmosphere. Such stagnation is typical in early winter, trapping emissions from vehicles, industries, and regional stubble burning.
Meteorological factors compounded the crisis, with Sunday’s maximum temperature at 30.7°C (0.5° below normal), minimum at 16.8°C (1.5° above), and humidity at 75% by 5:30 PM. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts shallow fog for Monday, with temperatures expected between 15°C and 30°C. AQEWS warns that air quality will likely remain “very poor” through November 4, urging residents—especially sensitive groups—to minimize outdoor exposure and use protective measures like N95 masks.
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In response, a ban on non-Delhi registered commercial vehicles below BS-IV standards took effect on November 1 to reduce diesel emissions. Anti-smog guns, water sprinklers, and over 1,200 enforcement teams are deployed across the city. However, experts emphasize that without coordinated action to curb crop burning in Punjab and Haryana and stricter industrial controls, such measures offer only temporary relief.
Citizens are advised to track real-time AQI via the Sameer app, avoid morning and evening outdoor activity, and use air purifiers indoors. As winter sets in, Delhi’s annual battle with toxic air intensifies, demanding urgent, long-term solutions for cleaner skies.
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