Delhi Chokes as Air Quality Enters ‘Severe’ Zone
The national capital is gasping for breath again as multiple areas in Delhi recorded ‘severe’ Air Quality Index (AQI) levels, crossing 400. Key hotspots like Anand Vihar, Punjabi Bagh, and RK Puram reported AQI above 450, making the air hazardous. Thick smog has reduced visibility, triggered health warnings, and left residents dreading another toxic winter.
Why is Delhi’s AQI Soaring?
The sudden air quality dip stems from multiple factors:
– Stubble Burning: Punjab and Haryana farm fires persist despite bans, contributing ~30% of Delhi’s pollution (SAFAR data).
– Vehicular Pollution: Over 13 million vehicles clog roads, worsening PM2.5 levels.
– Construction & Industry: Unregulated dust and factory emissions add to deadly particulate matter.
– Weather Conditions: Low wind speed and temperature inversion trap pollutants.
Health Crisis: Hospitals Overflowing
Doctors report a 30% spike in respiratory cases, including asthma and COPD. Dr. Arvind Kumar warns, “Breathing Delhi’s air equals smoking 20 cigarettes a day.” The vulnerable—children and elderly—are urged to stay indoors.
Emergency Measures Under GRAP
To curb pollution, Delhi has enforced:
– Construction bans in high-pollution zones.
– Diesel generator restrictions (exempting emergencies).
– Odd-even scheme likely if AQI worsens.
Political Battles Stall Solutions
The AAP-BJP blame game continues:
– Delhi blames Punjab/Haryana for stubble fires.
– BJP claims local sources (vehicles, industry) are unchecked.
– Supreme Court intervenes, demanding urgent action.
How to Protect Yourself
- Wear N95 masks outdoors.
- Avoid morning walks (peak pollution hours).
- Use air purifiers indoors.
- Carpool or metro to cut emissions.
Long-Term Fixes Remain Elusive
Experts stress the need for:
– Stricter year-round policies (not just winter steps).
– Electric vehicle incentives and metro expansion.
– Farmers’ support (bio-decomposers, financial aid).
– Stronger industrial regulations.
The Big Question
With smog engulfing Delhi annually, residents wonder: When will concrete action replace empty promises? For now, survival hinges on mitigation—not solutions.
Follow The Times of India for real-time AQI updates and policy developments.
