Delhi air pollution: AQI nears severe category, dense smog and severe cold increase problems

New Delhi, 21 December. The level of air pollution in the national capital Delhi increased rapidly on Sunday. Dense smog, severe cold and fog engulfed large parts of North India. The situation worsened so much that the pollution reached very close to the ‘severe’ category. The deteriorating air has once again increased the concern about people’s health. This situation is considered more dangerous especially for children, elderly people and people suffering from respiratory diseases.

According to the Air Quality Early Warning System data, Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) rose to 410 by 11 pm, which falls squarely in the ‘severe’ category. Although there was some relief at night, the situation remained worrying even in the morning. At around 6.30 am on Sunday, the AQI was recorded at 396, which was still close to the severe category.

Data from the Central Pollution Control Board’s ‘Sameer’ app showed that the air condition in many areas of the capital was very bad in the morning. The worst-affected places included Chandni Chowk (455), Wazirpur (449), Rohini (444), Jahangirpuri (444), Anand Vihar (438) and Mundka (436), all of which fell in the “severe” pollution category.

During this period the weather also increased the difficulties. The India Meteorological Department warned of dense to very dense fog. Visibility further reduced due to fog and its widespread impact on public life was seen. Orange alert was issued in many areas of Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Chandigarh. It was feared that road, rail and air traffic would be affected due to this.

It remained cold throughout the day in Delhi. The maximum temperature was around 17 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature dropped to around 8 degrees. A thick layer of smog remained throughout the day, making it difficult to go out. Experts say that due to seasonal factors like low wind speed and temperature fluctuations, the pollutants got trapped near the ground. As winter progresses, Delhi has to face such pollution again and again.