New Delhi: Residents of Delhi woke up to a dense layer of smog as the city's air quality plummeted to "severe" levels, with pollution rates soaring to 30-35 times above the safe limit set by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Delhi and its surrounding areas brace for a harsh smog season from October to January each year due to a combination of low temperatures, smoke, dust, vehicle emissions, and crop stubble burning. Experts warn that pollution may worsen in the coming days. According to Swiss air monitoring agency IQAir, parts of Delhi recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 500 on Wednesday, a level considered highly hazardous.
The AQI measures harmful particulate matter (PM2.5) in the air, which can penetrate deep into the lungs, leading to severe health problems. WHO guidelines suggest that AQI levels should remain below 100 for safe air, while values in the 400-500 range indicate "severe" pollution.
Neighboring cities like Noida and Gurgaon are also grappling with hazardous air, with AQI levels hitting the maximum limit of 500.
In recent weeks, northern states have reported toxic air and poor visibility, causing delays and cancellations of flights in and out of Delhi. NASA’s recent satellite images captured the thick smog from space, blanketing parts of northern India and Pakistan.
The pollution is taking a toll on public health, with an online survey by LocalCircles revealing that 81% of families in Delhi and nearby areas reported at least one family member experiencing health issues. More than one-third of respondents indicated they had purchased cough syrups in the past three weeks.
In response, the Delhi government has implemented the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), banning coal and firewood usage and restricting diesel generators. However, these measures have yet to mitigate the severe pollution levels fully. Authorities are advising residents to stay indoors and use public transport to reduce emissions.
Delhi was ranked the most polluted capital city in the world in 2023, and India holds the position of the third-most polluted country, following Bangladesh and Pakistan, according to IQAir. Experts cite industrial growth and weak enforcement of pollution control laws as contributing factors, with factories often disregarding environmental regulations, and rapid construction intensifying pollution levels.
Stay Safe: Residents are urged to wear masks, limit outdoor activities, and prioritize their health as the city grapples with this air quality crisis.