New Delhi: Residents of Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) were greeted by another morning of dense smog on Friday, as air pollution levels spiked to the ‘very poor’ category. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported an overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of 307 at 8 a.m., following a sharp rise from Thursday evening when the AQI had already touched 311—a jump of over 100 points in just 24 hours.
Air quality experts attribute the deteriorating conditions to multiple factors. Stubble burning in neighbouring states of Haryana and Punjab, the aftermath of Gurpurab celebrations with firecrackers, and vehicular emissions within Delhi have all contributed to the hazardous air.
According to the Centre’s Decision Support System, stubble burning alone contributed 9.48% to Delhi’s PM2.5 levels on Thursday, marking the highest impact from crop residue fires this winter so far. Meteorologists warn that this share could increase to nearly 38% on Friday, as northwesterly winds are expected to carry more smoke from surrounding regions into the capital.
The thick haze has reduced visibility across the city, causing disruptions in traffic and raising health concerns for vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions. Authorities have advised residents to limit outdoor activities, use masks, and keep windows closed where possible.
Delhi’s pollution crisis, a recurring issue each winter, highlights the urgent need for coordinated measures to address stubble burning, vehicular emissions, and industrial pollution to protect public health and reduce the city’s exposure to toxic air.
