Delhi's Air Quality Reaches Dangerous Levels: Multiple Areas Record Severe AQI

Air quality in Delhi continues to remain at harmful levels.

New Delhi:

Residents of Delhi and nearby areas woke up to smog on Saturday, with the overall air quality approaching the 'severe' category. According to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data, the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) at 8 am was 390, classified as "very poor." However, numerous areas in the national capital recorded air quality in the severe category. These locations included Anand Vihar (AQI- 435), Burari Crossing (AQI- 415), Chandni Chowk (AQI- 419), Ghazipur (AQI- 435), Jahangirpuri (AQI- 442), RK Puram (AQI- 404), and Rohini (AQI- 436).

READ: 'Need To Align Policy With Health-Based Science': Experts On Air Quality Standards

A combination of smog and shallow fog reduced visibility across several areas of the national capital early Saturday morning. According to AQI categorization, 0-50 is considered 'good,' 51-100 'satisfactory,' 101-200 'moderate,' 201-300 'poor', 301-400 'very poor,' and 401-500 'severe.' The CPCB indicates that each category reflects specific pollution levels and associated health risks.

#WATCH | Delhi | Visuals around Ghazipur area this morning as a layer of toxic smog blankets the city.AQI (Air Quality Index) around the area is 435, categorised as 'Severe', as claimed by CPCB (Central Pollution Control Board).

Dangerous AQI levels have become increasingly common throughout several Delhi areas during winter months. Saturday's overall AQI, falling under the "very poor category," poses significant respiratory illness risks even for healthy individuals when exposure continues for extended periods.

Delhi Airport Issues Advisory

In a post on X, Delhi Airport stated that all flight operations remained normal for the time being. "Low visibility procedures are in progress at Delhi Airport. All flight operations are presently normal. Passengers are requested to contact the airline concerned for updated flight information," the advisory said.

#WATCH | Delhi | Visuals from the Dhaula Kuan area this morning as a layer of toxic smog blankets the city.AQI (Air Quality Index) around the area is 376, categorised as 'Very Poor', as claimed by CPCB (Central Pollution Control Board).

On Friday as well, Delhi experienced a thick blanket of smog, with the AQI at 386. Dense haze was reported in areas such as Ghazipur and Anand Vihar, where visibility remained extremely low.

Despite slight improvements in recent weeks, large sections of the capital continue to be engulfed in dense and toxic smog. The deteriorating air quality has triggered political confrontations between parties.