Delhi Air Turns Toxic Again, AQI 349 Amid Widespread Smog

CNN Central News & Networks / ITDC India ePress / ITDC News /Agencies/ Bhopal: Delhi Air Turns Toxic Again, AQI 349 Amid Widespread Smog

CNN Central News & Networks / ITDC India ePress / ITDC News / Agencies, Bhopal: Air pollution in the national capital Delhi has begun rising sharply once again. According to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data on Monday morning, Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 349 at 7:05 am. At this level, the capital’s air has reached the “very poor” category. A thick layer of haze and smog was visible in several areas in the morning.

Rain last week had brought some relief in pollution levels, but after the rain stopped, conditions began worsening again. Delhi’s 24-hour average AQI on Sunday was 261, while it was recorded at 117 on Saturday. In Jahangirpuri, the AQI reached 417, which falls in the “severe” category. Of the 58 monitoring stations, 36 recorded air quality in the “very poor” category.

According to experts, vehicle emissions, dust from construction activities, industrial emissions and incidents of stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana are the main reasons behind the rise in pollution. In addition, because of slow wind speed, pollutants are accumulating close to the ground instead of dispersing in the atmosphere. Temperature-related conditions in winter may also worsen pollution.

The administration has stepped up vehicle checks, inspections of construction sites and other restrictive measures to control pollution. Experts have advised people to avoid unnecessary outdoor movement in the morning and evening, wear masks when pollution is high, and take special care of children, the elderly and people with respiratory problems.

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