Delhi Suffers as Smog Covers NCR, AQI Hits Dangerous Levels

As Delhi grapples with severe air pollution, the city's air quality index (AQI) has reached alarming levels, with the average AQI surpassing 310, categorizing it as ‘very poor.’ A thick layer of smog has engulfed the city and surrounding areas, including Noida, prompting authorities to implement Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This stage includes a ban on coal and firewood use in restaurants, as well as restrictions on diesel generators, except for emergency services. The Central Pollution Control Board reports that 26 out of 36 monitoring stations in Delhi are in the ‘very poor’ category, highlighting areas such as Rohini, Mundka, and Shadipur. Transportation is a significant contributor to the pollution, accounting for around 10.9% of emissions, while stubble burning in neighboring states like Punjab and Haryana further exacerbates the problem. The city's air quality worsens during the winter months due to low wind speeds and temperature drops, trapping pollution particles near the ground. With smog expected to intensify as winter approaches, authorities have taken steps like the ‘Red Light On, Gaadi Off’ campaign to reduce vehicular emissions. However, experts warn that the city's pollution crisis requires more long-term measures, and immediate action is needed to prevent further deterioration of air quality.