Delhi Air Quality Plummets to ‘Severe Plus’ as AQI Surpasses 450
Delhi Gasps for Air as Pollution Reaches ‘Severe Plus’ Levels
New Delhi, December 18, 2024 - A thick blanket of smog has descended upon the national capital, pushing Delhi’s air quality to alarming levels. The Air quality Index (AQI) soared past the 450 mark late Wednesday evening, plunging the city into the ‘severe plus’ category.
This dangerous spike follows several days of deteriorating air quality, exacerbated by plummeting temperatures and stagnant winds that trap pollutants.
“the air is incredibly heavy and pungent,” said a resident of Nehru Nagar, one of the worst-affected areas with an AQI reading of 485. “It’s difficult to even breathe properly.”
The situation is dire across the city. Wazirpur, Rohini, Anand Vihar, and Punjabi Bagh all recorded AQI readings above 475, according to the Central Pollution Control Board’s (CPCB) Sameer app.
The hazardous air quality has prompted authorities to maintain Stage IV of the Graded Response action Plan (GRAP),the strictest set of anti-pollution measures. This includes a ban on construction activities and the entry of non-essential trucks into Delhi.
“An AQI of 400 or above is a serious public health concern,” warned a CPCB official. “We urge residents to take precautions and minimize outdoor exposure.”
Adding to the city’s woes, a shallow fog persisted throughout the day, further reducing visibility and adding to the discomfort. while the maximum temperature reached a slightly above-average 23 degrees Celsius, the evening chill felt more intense.
Schools in Delhi-NCR have reverted to a hybrid model of learning, with students in grades 6-9 and 11 attending classes both online and in-person. Students in grades 10 and 12 are required to attend school physically.
This marks the second time this month that schools have shifted to a hybrid model due to worsening air quality. The previous switch occurred on November 25th, before resuming in-person classes on December 5th.
As Delhi struggles to breathe, the hope remains that weather patterns will shift, bringing much-needed relief from the choking smog.
Delhi Gasps: Experts Weigh in on Severe pollution Crisis
new Delhi: As Delhi reels under a thick blanket of smog, pushing the air quality index (AQI) to a dangerous “severe plus” level, newsdirectory3.com spoke with Dr. Anjali Sharma, a leading pulmonologist at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), to understand the alarming situation and its potential health ramifications.
ND3: Dr. Sharma, the AQI in Delhi has crossed the 450 mark, categorized as “severe plus.” What are the immediate health risks for residents?
Dr. Sharma: This level of air pollution is extremely dangerous, especially for vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. We are seeing a surge in cases of asthma attacks, aggravated bronchitis, and respiratory infections. Even healthy individuals may experience coughing, shortness of breath, and irritation in the eyes and throat. Prolonged exposure to such poor air quality can lead to long-term lung damage.
ND3: The authorities have implemented Stage IV of the GRAP, the strictest anti-pollution measures. How effective are these measures in curbing the crisis?
Dr. Sharma: While measures like halting construction activities and restricting vehicular traffic are crucial, their effectiveness is limited without addressing the root causes of air pollution. We need a extensive approach that includes stricter emission standards for industries, promoting public transport, and encouraging sustainable practices.
ND3: What precautions should residents take to protect themselves during this critical period?
Dr. Sharma: I urge residents to minimize outdoor exposure, especially during peak pollution hours. Wear a good quality mask (N95 or higher) when venturing outside. Keep windows and doors closed, and use air purifiers indoors if possible.
ND3: What is your message to the government and policymakers?
Dr. Sharma: This is a public health emergency demanding urgent and decisive action. We need long-term strategies and stricter enforcement of environmental regulations to ensure clean air for all citizens. The health of our city and its people is at stake.
ND3: Thank you for your insights,Dr. Sharma. We hope your advice helps raise awareness and spurs action to address this critical issue.