Delhi air quality slips to ‘Very Poor’ as smog engulfs city; AQI crosses 300

Delhi’s air quality has worsened, slipping back into the ‘Very Poor’ category, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeding 300 in many areas. Thick smog and fog trap pollutants, reducing visibility and disrupting daily life.

Authorities are monitoring pollution levels and enforcing measures such as the ‘No PUC, No Fuel’ rule to address the situation.

The AQI in the India Gate is 303, classified as ‘Very Poor’ by the CPCB (Central Pollution Control Board).

The AQi in Anand Vihar is 410, classified as ‘Severe’, and ITO records 379, classified as ‘ver poor’. Akshardham area has recorded a ‘severe’ AQI of 410. In Dhaula Kuan, the AQI is 252, classified as ‘Poor’.

The Commission for Air Quality Management has invoked Stage III measures under the Graded Response Action Plan, including restrictions on construction and industrial activities. A combination of cold weather, calm winds, and dense fog is trapping pollutants, leading to haze and smog.

This cycle of poor air quality is expected to persist with current weather patterns, prompting continuous monitoring and calls for stricter pollution control measures.

‘Very Poor’ air quality requires people, especially vulnerable groups (children, elderly, those with respiratory issues), to limit prolonged outdoor exposure and wear masks.

Meanwhile, dense fog engulfed Karnal as cold wave intensified in the district.

Earlier, the Delhi Cabinet, under the leadership of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, approved a series of significant decisions to strengthen the capital’s fight against pollution and improve environmental governance. The Cabinet approved an allocation of ₹100 crore for the rejuvenation of water bodies under the Delhi government. There are around 1,000 such water bodies in the national capital, of which 160 fall under the Delhi government’s jurisdiction.

Environment Minister Sirsa stated, “The rejuvenation of Delhi’s water bodies will play a crucial role in pollution control. The Chief Minister has directed that every possible financial support be extended to complete this work within the year.”

The Cabinet also approved the establishment of Delhi’s first E-Waste Park at Holambi Kalan, spread across 11.5 acres. The facility will adhere to the highest pollution-control standards and operate on a 100% circular, zero-waste model. “This will be India’s first state-of-the-art e-waste facility built on zero pollution and zero wastage principles. The plant will fully recycle and reuse water through an advanced recirculation mechanism,” Mr. Sirsa said.