Delhi’s air quality remains 'very poor', making breathing difficult

The national capital woke up to another hazy morning on Saturday as air quality remained in the ‘very poor’ category. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s overall AQI stood at 355 at 8 am, marking a sharp deterioration from the previous day’s reading of 312. The worsening smog reduced visibility across several parts of the city and left residents complaining of irritation in their eyes and throat.

Key locations reported alarming pollution levels - India Gate recorded an AQI of 322, Palam 320, and Dhaula Kuan 269. The thick layer of smog blanketing the city continued to affect morning traffic and outdoor activities, with many commuters seen wearing masks.

Residents demand swift government action

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Residents voiced growing concern over the persistent rise in pollution, saying the situation had become unbearable. Karan Sharma, a resident of South Delhi, said, “The pollution is very high. We face difficulties in breathing. No action is being taken by the concerned departments. The government should pay attention to the issue.”

The poor visibility and heavy air have forced many to reduce outdoor exercise and keep windows shut. Locals have called for more stringent enforcement of pollution control measures and urgent steps to ease the crisis.

AQI continues to worsen across Delhi

The CPCB data showed widespread deterioration in air quality across almost all monitoring stations. Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 332, Ashok Vihar 332, Bawana 366, Burari Crossing 345, Chandni Chowk 354, Dwarka Sector-8 310, Jahangirpuri 342, and Punjabi Bagh 343 - all in the ‘very poor’ range.

Neighbourhoods such as Mundka (335), Narela (335), RK Puram (321), and Rohini (336) also saw pollution levels surge overnight. The pollution pattern has remained largely unchanged since Diwali, with stagnant wind movement and increased emissions from vehicles and construction activities worsening air stagnation over the city.

Restrictions under GRAP Stage II continue

With the city’s air quality showing no sign of improvement, authorities have kept Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in effect. The plan includes curbs on construction work, intensified road cleaning, and a directive to double parking fees to discourage private vehicle use.

The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) confirmed that parking rates across the capital have been increased to limit vehicular congestion and promote the use of public transport. Officials have urged residents to use metro and bus services wherever possible and avoid unnecessary travel.

Pollution levels show regional impact

The poor air quality in Delhi has also affected neighbouring parts of the National Capital Region (NCR), including Gurugram, Noida, and Ghaziabad, where AQI levels have similarly touched ‘very poor’ or ‘severe’ categories. The CPCB has attributed this to local emissions combined with cross-border pollution from stubble burning in nearby states.

While the exact contribution from stubble burning fluctuates daily, foreign media reports have highlighted that the problem of post-harvest residue burning in Punjab and Haryana remains a significant seasonal challenge.

Health warnings issued for vulnerable groups

The CPCB has warned that prolonged exposure to air in the ‘very poor’ range could cause respiratory discomfort among children, elderly persons, and those with pre-existing conditions. Residents have been advised to avoid long outdoor exposure, wear protective masks, and use air purifiers indoors where possible.

Doctors have also recommended maintaining hydration and limiting strenuous activities in open spaces. The toxic haze has particularly affected morning walkers and those with asthma or bronchial allergies.

Weather conditions are expected to remain largely unchanged over the weekend, with light winds offering little relief. Forecasts suggest that Delhi’s AQI may hover in the ‘very poor’ zone for at least the next few days unless stronger winds help disperse pollutants.