Toxic air is currently sweeping across Delhi-NCR, and stepping out without a mask feels like inviting death. A thick haze covers the entire area, and as soon as you step outside, your eyes start burning. The AQI in Delhi has reached nearly 500. However, despite the severe pollution, Gurugram’s crematorium has the cleanest air in the NCR. On Tuesday evening, the AQI at Gurugram’s crematorium was recorded at 83, while many other areas in Gurugram had AQI levels around 350.
The crematorium, typically filled with smoke from burning pyres, is now an unlikely source of cleaner air, which is surprising given the usual presence of smoke from burning wood. While many areas in Gurugram suffer from high AQI levels, the AQI at the crematorium remains significantly lower. People are now humorously wondering if they need to visit a crematorium for fresh air.
Delhi is currently facing a severe pollution crisis, with pollution levels rising rapidly and the air quality reaching a “severe” category. The AQI has surpassed 450, prompting the Delhi government to implement GRAP-4, imposing restrictions on various categories of vehicles entering the city.
With the implementation of GRAP-4, Delhi’s roads have seen increased vigilance by the traffic police and transport teams. They are issuing fines to vehicles that are restricted from operating, particularly at the Sindhu Border, where vehicles are being checked. The police inform that restricted vehicles are being fined and sent back, meaning they are not allowed to enter Delhi.
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As the haze worsens in Delhi-NCR, there has been a surge in the sale of air filter masks and air purifiers. People are flocking to stores to purchase these items, and sales have increased significantly—where only 20 masks would sell in a month, now 100 to 150 masks are sold in a single day. This highlights how people are struggling with pollution. Doctors have also seen an uptick in patients suffering from coughs and eye irritation, and are advising people to take necessary precautions.
