Delhi Air Quality Crisis: AQI Hits ‘Severe’, Smog Blankets NCR

A dense blanket of toxic smog has enveloped Delhi and its surrounding National Capital Region (NCR), pushing the Air Quality Index (AQI) into the ‘Severe’ category. Recent readings from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) highlight extreme pollution levels across the region, with numerous hotspots reporting AQI values well above 400. These hazardous conditions are a serious concern for public health. Twenty out of thirty-nine monitoring stations in Delhi alone have recorded AQI in the ‘Severe’ range, with areas like Anand Vihar, Jahangirpuri, and DTU showing critically high readings. The visual impact is stark, with reduced visibility and a noticeable absence of people outdoors, even in popular spots like India Gate. The pollution crisis is not confined to the capital; Noida and Ghaziabad are also experiencing ‘Severe’ air quality, while Gurugram and Faridabad are in the ‘Poor’ to ‘Very Poor’ categories. Health experts are issuing warnings about the heightened risk of respiratory and cardiac problems for residents. Frustration among citizens is growing, leading to public protests at India Gate demanding effective, long-term pollution control strategies from authorities, who are facing mounting pressure to address the persistent environmental emergency.