Difficulty in breathing and severe cold! ‘Death knock’ of pollution in Noida, AQI reaches 450; Meteorological Department’s warning – “Winter will torment us more”

The effect of winter is increasing day by day in Noida and Greater Noida adjacent to Delhi. Along with cold, dense fog and deteriorating air quality have now become a cause of trouble for people. The fog is becoming so dense in the morning and late night that visibility on the roads has become extremely low. At the same time, due to pollution the air also continues to remain bad.

According to the district administration, yellow alert has been issued regarding dense fog in Gautam Buddha Nagar district. District Disaster Expert Omkar Chaturvedi said that according to the Meteorological Department, westerly winds will blow in the district from Monday, due to which the temperature will fall further. This will increase the cold. However, at present the effects of both cold and pollution are being seen together.

Due to fog and cold winds, pollutant particles are accumulating in the air, due to which the air quality AQI has reached worrying levels. Currently, AQI in Noida is recorded between 430 to 450, which falls in the very poor to severe category. Whereas in Greater Noida, AQI has reached above 450, which is considered a serious situation. This level of air is extremely harmful for health.

Children and the elderly are most affected by poor AQI.

The worst impact of poor AQI is on children, the elderly and people suffering from respiratory diseases. People are facing problems like eye irritation, sore throat, difficulty in breathing and headache. Health experts have advised that during this period, avoid going out in the morning and evening and use a mask.

The effect of fog is clearly visible on traffic also.

Visibility is being recorded less than 50 meters at many places on Noida-Greater Noida Expressway, Yamuna Expressway and main roads of the city. Drivers have to drive slowly, due to which the risk of accidents has increased. The administration and traffic police have appealed to the drivers to use fog lights, maintain safe distance and avoid unnecessary travel. Besides, common citizens have also been asked to cooperate and follow the instructions issued regarding weather and pollution. The administration says that the situation is being constantly monitored and if necessary, strict measures will be taken under GRAP.