New Delhi: Delhi woke up to a dense layer of grey haze on Monday, with air pollution levels staying in the ‘very poor’ category, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The citywide Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded a reading of 366, signaling a hazardous level for residents.
Monitoring stations across the capital painted a grim picture, with seven locations registering ‘severe’ air quality. Narela topped the list with an AQI of 418, highlighting the intensity of pollution in some areas.
The CPCB classifies AQI readings as follows: 0-50 is ‘good’, 51-100 ‘satisfactory’, 101-200 ‘moderate’, 201-300 ‘poor’, 301-400 ‘very poor’, and 401-500 ‘severe’.
Weather conditions are contributing to the worsening air quality. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported calm winds with speeds below 10 kmph, which hampers the dispersal of pollutants. The city also recorded a minimum temperature of 9.3°C on Monday.
According to the Air Quality Early Warning System (AQEWS), Delhi is likely to remain in the ‘very poor’ category over the next three days, with pollution levels expected to fluctuate between ‘very poor’ and ‘severe’ over the following six days.
Experts have urged residents, particularly children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, to take precautions and limit outdoor activities as the smog persists.
