Delhi AQI: The air quality in Delhi reached dangerous levels on Saturday. In many areas, AQI remained beyond 400, due to which problems like difficulty in breathing and burning sensation in eyes have increased. The government is trying to reduce traffic by changing office timings.
Delhi Pollution: Delhi’s air is no longer fit to breathe. On Saturday, the Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded above 400 in many areas of the capital, which is kept in the ‘severe’ category. This is the same level. Where air directly attacks health. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the average AQI of Delhi was 361 today. AQI crossed 400 in many areas, due to which the city once again joined the red zone. The situation was also very bad in Noida, Greater Noida and Ghaziabad adjacent to the capital, where the AQI was recorded in the ‘very poor’ category.
Most polluted areas in Delhi
| area | AQI level | Situation |
|---|---|---|
| Wazirpur | 420 | Serious |
| Burari | 418 | Serious |
| Vivek Vihar | 411 | Serious |
| Nehru Nagar | 406 | Serious |
| Alipore | 404 | Serious |
| ITO | 402 | Serious |
Why has the air deteriorated in Delhi?
According to experts, 30% pollution is due to stubble burning, 15% pollution is due to vehicle smoke, the remaining part is increasing due to dust, weather and industrial emissions. The incidents of stubble burning are continuously increasing in Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh.
Will Delhi’s air improve or not?
The Air Quality Early Warning System has clearly said that there is no improvement in the air in the coming few days. AQI will remain ‘very poor’. The government has come into action and office timings have been changed. Delhi government offices will open from 10 am to 6.30 pm. At the same time, MCD offices will remain open from 8.30 am to 5 pm. This change will remain in effect till February 15, 2026, so that rush hour traffic can be reduced. Along with this, 200 anti-smog guns will operate on the roadside. It has been made mandatory to install anti-smog guns in buildings taller than G+5.
Effect of pollution on health
According to health experts, PM 2.5 particles present in smog reach the brain through the blood. This slows down the ability to think, increases dizziness, irritability and fatigue. Doctors have advised to wear N95 mask when going out, run air purifier at home, stop jogging and walking for now and drink more water to keep the body hydrated.
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