Air pollution levels in the national capital worsened sharply on Sunday, with Delhi’s overall Air Quality Index (AQI) slipping into the ‘severe’ category, as dense smog blanketed large parts of the city, raising serious health concerns and disrupting daily life.
According to data from air quality monitoring stations, concentrations of particulate matter, particularly PM2.5 and PM10, surged across several areas. Unfavourable meteorological conditions, including low wind speed, declining temperatures and poor dispersion, were cited as key reasons for the sudden spike in pollution levels.
The thick smog significantly reduced visibility in the early morning hours, affecting road traffic and flight operations at the Indira Gandhi International Airport. Several flights were delayed due to low visibility, while commuters reported slow-moving traffic on major roads.
Doctors and health experts warned that prolonged exposure to severe air pollution could aggravate respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. People, especially children, senior citizens and those suffering from asthma or other lung ailments, were advised to limit outdoor activities and take precautionary measures.
In view of the deteriorating air quality, authorities said the situation is being closely monitored by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). Officials indicated that stricter measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) could be enforced if pollution levels remain high or worsen further. These measures may include curbs on construction activities, restrictions on diesel vehicles and tighter controls on industrial emissions.
Delhi witnesses a sharp rise in pollution levels every winter due to a combination of vehicular emissions, construction dust, industrial pollution and seasonal factors. Despite various interventions, the city continues to grapple with hazardous air quality, prompting renewed calls for long-term and sustainable solutions to address the recurring crisis.
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