Delhi’s Air Quality Remains Very Poor with Severe Pollution Hotspots, Health Risks Escalate

New Delhi, November 4 (TNA) Air quality in the union capital deteriorated sharply on Tuesday, reaching the ‘very poor’ category as pollution levels spiked across the city. The AQI touched 316 early this morning according to the Air Quality Early Warning System, while other monitors showed the index around 242.

This marks a significant rise from October’s ‘unhealthy’ levels, with today’s AQI showing a nearly 40% increase compared to last month. Pollution hotspots in the city included areas such as Wazirpur, Narela, and Shahdara, with AQI readings in the ‘severe’ range, crossing above 400 at locations like Wazirpur (416) and Burari Crossing (403).

PM2.5 concentration measured 168 µg/m³, exceeding the World Health Organisation’s recommended safe limit by over 11 times, posing severe health risks including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

Meteorological factors such as low wind speeds and temperature inversions contributed to trapping pollutants in the city, worsening the smog situation. The air quality is expected to remain in the ‘very poor’ category for the next day as well.

Health experts advise residents, especially children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, to limit outdoor activities and take necessary precautions. Authorities continue to implement measures under the Graded Response Action Plan to curb pollution, but the persistent rise in AQI remains a challenge for the capital.