Delhi–NCR chokes as AQI breaches 500 in several areas; dense smog and cold mornings intensify discomfort

Delhi-NCR choked under another day of hazardous air on Saturday, November 22, as several pollution hotspots breached the 500-mark, plunging air quality into the ‘severe plus’ category. At 7 a.m., Delhi’s average AQI stood at 447, according to aqi.in. Stations in Noida, Greater Noida, Faridabad, Gurgaon and Meerut reported readings between 440 and 500, turning the air practically unbreathable.

Smog blanket thickens as PM2.5 levels soar

PM2.5 concentrations spiked to 312 micrograms per cubic metre, while PM10 touched 422, more than 20 times the World Health Organisation’s safe limits. Residents across Delhi, Noida and Ghaziabad woke up to dense smog that reduced visibility and caused breathing discomfort through the morning.

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Early Warning System data showed visibility dipping to 800–900 metres on Friday and staying low on Saturday. Doctors warned that prolonged exposure could trigger lung irritation, wheezing and severe symptoms in vulnerable groups.

Neighbouring cities fare no better

Greater Noida touched 495 AQI; Noida recorded 462. Faridabad stood at 448, and Gurgaon at 454. Many pockets of Meerut and Ghaziabad also slipped into ‘severe’ territory. Commuters reported burning eyes and breathlessness, while schools and offices faced transport delays.

Cold wave adds to the discomfort

Cooling temperatures worsened conditions. Safdarjung recorded 11.2°C on Friday - slightly below normal with forecasts showing a dip to 9–11°C over the next few days. Morning fog mixed with particulate matter created a thick, persistent smog layer across the Capital.

Courts flag urgent health concerns

The Delhi High Court ordered cancellation of all outdoor school sports events, stating that authorities were failing to safeguard children’s health. The Supreme Court directed states to extend subsistence allowances to construction workers affected by GRAP-III restrictions.

Authorities continue with emergency curbs

GRAP Stage III remains in force since 11 November, with bans on construction, tighter vehicular checks and restrictions on industrial emissions. Experts said wind speeds were too low to disperse pollutants, leaving residents exposed to toxic air for extended hours.

What next for Delhi’s long-term air quality plan?

The worsening smog has renewed calls for structural reforms. Meteorologists said stagnant winds, low temperatures and persistent fog had trapped pollutants near the surface.