The air in Delhi-NCR has rapidly worsened, reverting to red zone peril after one good day. Toxic AQI spikes, coupled with fog and cold snaps, are heightening respiratory woes across the bustling metropolis and suburbs.
Critical readings flood in: Anand Vihar 334, Chandni Chowk 323, Nehru Nagar 329, Okhla Phase-2 310, Patparganj 301, R.K. Puram 300 in Delhi. Punjabi Bagh 298, Rohini 281, Ashok Vihar 287; milder at Aya Nagar 149, Pusa 187.
Ghaziabad: Indirapuram 332, Loni 314, Vasundhara 318. Noida: Sector-125 304, Sector-1 307, Sector-116 294, Sector-62 231.
No quick fix in sight, says IMD. Morning dense fog today limited visibility, with 20°C high and 8°C low. Moderate fog forecast for February 4-5 (21/9°C), persisting February 6-8 (22-23/9-10°C). Blame western disturbances: hill snow sends cold air, trapping smog in calm winds.
No formal alerts yet, but low wind speeds demand outdoor precautions. This seasonal scourge underscores the need for long-term solutions like cleaner fuels and green belts. For now, Delhiites brace for foggy, polluted days ahead.