On Friday morning, Delhi and its surrounding areas witnessed a dramatic surge in air pollution, with the air quality plunging into the “severe” category. A thick blanket of smog enveloped the National Capital Region (NCR), affecting not only Delhi but also Noida, Ghaziabad, and Gurugram. Drone footage captured from the Anand Vihar area highlighted the extent of the crisis, showcasing a dense haze covering the region at around 9:30 am.
Alarming AQI Readings Across Delhi
According to IQAir, a Swiss air quality monitoring company, the Air Quality Index (AQI) readings in various parts of Delhi hit hazardous levels, ranging between 800 and 1,100. Areas such as Anand Vihar, Dwarka-Sector 8, and Vasant Vihar (Block C) recorded AQI readings of 1,105, 1,057, and 1,041, respectively, underscoring the severity of the pollution affecting the capital.
WATCH THE VIRAL VIDEO OF SMOG IN DELHI:
#WATCH | Delhi: Drone visuals from the Anand Vihar area shows a thick layer of haze in the air. Visuals shot at 9:30 am today. pic.twitter.com/tB9wxFcayd
— ANI (@ANI) November 15, 2024
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) also reported a severe AQI of 413 for Delhi on its Sameer app. Many areas across the city saw AQI levels between 401 and 500, signaling a dangerous and toxic environment for residents.
Worst-affected Areas in Delhi
By 11 am, the most polluted areas in Delhi included:
- Anand Vihar (DPCC): AQI 1,105
- Vasant Vihar Block C (DPCC): AQI 1,057
- Dwarka-Sector 8 (DPCC): AQI 1,041
- Burari Crossing (IMD): AQI 967
- Mundka (DPCC): AQI 945
- Rohini (DPCC): AQI 836
- Narela (DPCC): AQI 808
- DTU (CPCB): AQI 766
- ITO (CPCB): AQI 749
- Najafgarh (DPCC): AQI 613
These levels signify severe pollution, putting the health of millions of residents at risk.
Implementation of GRAP Stage III Restrictions
In response to the hazardous air quality, the Delhi government has imposed the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage III restrictions. This stage, which targets severe pollution levels, includes:
- A ban on non-essential construction and demolition activities.
- Closure of stone crushers.
- A prohibition on the use of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles.
The GRAP also outlines additional measures in case the situation escalates to Stage IV, which includes stricter actions such as a ban on inter-state buses (except electric and CNG-powered vehicles), the suspension of mining activities, and a shift to online classes for schoolchildren.
A City Under Smog: Health Hazards and Urgent Measures
As Delhi battles its ongoing pollution crisis, residents face a multitude of health hazards. The toxic smog, compounded by vehicle emissions, crop-burning residue, and industrial pollutants, poses significant risks, especially for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Citizens are urged to limit outdoor activities, wear masks, and avoid exposure to the toxic air wherever possible.
As the situation continues to worsen, the city government’s swift action through the GRAP framework aims to control the pollution levels, although further restrictions may be necessary if conditions deteriorate further.
With air quality reaching hazardous levels and the city implementing emergency measures, Delhi’s pollution crisis remains a critical issue. Citizens must take immediate precautions, while the government is under increasing pressure to address the root causes of pollution for the long-term health and safety of its residents.
