Delhi Shivers Amid Rain and Fog, But Air Quality Stays ‘Severe’ at AQI 410

Despite light rain and a drop in temperature, Delhi’s air quality remains hazardous, with multiple areas recording AQI levels in the ‘severe’ category.

December 23, 2024: New Delhi: The national capital woke up to a chilly and foggy morning on Monday as light rain brought some relief from the biting cold. However, the toxic air continues to pose severe health risks, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 410 at 6 a.m., placing it in the ‘severe’ category, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

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Weather and Visibility Concerns:

A thin layer of fog significantly reduced visibility across the city. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported a minimum temperature of 9.2°C at 5:30 a.m., accompanied by light rainfall in various parts of Delhi. Locals in areas like Lodhi Road were seen taking refuge in night shelters to escape the harsh winter conditions.

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Alarming AQI Levels Across Key Areas:

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Several regions reported dangerously high AQI levels:

• Wazirpur: 464
• Ashok Vihar: 460
• Mundka: 446
• Burari Crossing: 445
• Anand Vihar: 443

Even areas such as Dwarka-Sector 8 (393) and Najafgarh (372) recorded air quality just below the ‘severe’ threshold.

Health Hazards and PM2.5 Levels:

The levels of PM2.5—fine particulate matter that can penetrate deep into the lungs—remained dangerously high. Out of 39 air monitoring stations in Delhi, 37 recorded ‘severe plus’ pollution levels on Sunday, causing respiratory issues and eye irritation among vulnerable groups.

Government Measures and Court Directives:

In response to the worsening situation, the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage IV remains in effect across the National Capital Region (NCR) since December 16. Despite these emergency measures, the impact on pollution levels has been minimal.

The Supreme Court has directed Uttar Pradesh and Haryana to enforce firecracker bans similar to Delhi’s and ensure strict compliance with GRAP and the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016.

Citizens Call for Stronger Measures:

Residents continue to report severe health issues, including breathing difficulties, persistent cough, and throat irritation. Many are urging authorities to enforce stricter pollution control measures and address long-term environmental concerns.

With dense fog, dropping temperatures, and relentless air pollution, life in Delhi remains challenging. Authorities face mounting pressure to deliver tangible results in tackling the persistent pollution crisis.

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Delhi Air Quality, AQI Severe, Delhi Rain, Pollution Crisis, Graded Response Action Plan, Supreme Court on Pollution, Delhi Winter, Health Risks, PM2.5 Levels, Toxic Air in Delhi