Delhi’s air quality reached hazardous levels, with the AQI crossing the 500 mark early Sunday, just two days after Diwali. As of 5 a.m., a thick smog enveloped the city, with AQI readings at a dangerous 507, marking pollution levels over 65 times higher than WHO recommendations, according to IQAir data. This severe pollution has raised health concerns for Delhi and surrounding areas.
The AQI, which assesses air quality, categorizes readings between 200-300 as “poor,” 301-400 as “very poor,” and 401-450 as “severe.” Levels above 450 fall into the “severe-plus” category, posing serious health risks to residents.
Rapid AQI Spike in Delhi
Within 12 hours, Delhi’s AQI surged by over 150 points, jumping from 327 at 9 p.m. Saturday to 507 by early Sunday. Alipur, Anand Vihar, Aaya Nagar, and other areas reported “very poor” air quality, as indicated by hourly updates from the Sameer app, published by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Also Read- Delhi Air Pollution: Survey Reveals 69% of Families Have at Least One Member Affected
Post-Diwali Pollution Rise
Following Diwali celebrations, Delhi’s air quality was rated as “very poor,” with most areas showing AQI levels over 350, raising concerns for public health.
A LocalCircles survey revealed that Delhi residents experienced severe impacts, with 69% of respondents reporting respiratory issues such as sore throats and coughs, and 62% facing eye irritation.
GRAP-II Already in Effect in Delhi-NCR
Despite measures like the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-II), Delhi’s air quality continues to decline. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) implemented GRAP-II on October 21 after AQI levels first entered the “very poor” category.