Delhi Battles Severe Air as AQI Nears 500

Delhi is once again choking on toxic air as the city records its worst air quality of the season. The 24-hour average AQI has spent the day in the severe band, with readings around 461 at one point and other reports indicating readings approaching 497, the highest so far this winter. In response, authorities activated the Graded Response Action Plan at its Stage IV level, the most stringent set of restrictions, aiming to curb road dust and limit outdoor activities.

Dust from roads and construction work continues to be a major contributor. Inspections on 136 road stretches by authorities revealed 15 stretches with high visible dust, 38 with moderate dust, 61 with low dust, and 22 with no visible dust. Officials say dust is a key driver of the deteriorating air and stress the need for aggressive dust-control measures and enforcement across the city.

The impact is already visible. Schools are adopting hybrid models, offices are operating at about half strength, and residents report breathing difficulties, eye irritation, and symptoms especially among the elderly and children. Health advisories urge people to limit outdoor activities, wear masks, and use air purifiers indoors.

Forecasts from air quality monitoring systems suggest the severe to very poor category could persist through the weekend and into next week, with the outlook for the next six days indicating Very Poor to Severe levels. Experts say long-term remedies are needed to cope with recurring winter spikes, including stronger controls on stubble burning and broader pollution-source management.

As Delhi confronts this environmental challenge, residents are calling for more aggressive policy action and sustainable solutions to curb pollution beyond temporary curbs.

Cover image source: Air quality worsens in Delhi, AQI settles in ‘severe’ zone 🔗

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