Delhi Air Pollution Reaches Severe Levels in Multiple Neighbourhoods
Delhi’s air quality worsened sharply on Friday, with the city recording a dangerous rise in pollution levels across several zones. The Delhi air pollution index climbed to 384 at 8:00 am, placing the national capital in the “very poor” category, based on data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Moreover, the toxic haze became more intense in many parts of the city. Mundka reported the worst air with an AQI of 436, followed by Rohini at 432. Key stations such as Anand Vihar (408) and Jahangirpuri (420) also entered the “severe” category. These levels reflect an alarming decline in air quality just as winter conditions deepen.
Neighbouring NCR cities continued to struggle as well. Noida reported a severe AQI of 404, while Greater Noida (377) and Ghaziabad (350) remained in the “very poor” bracket. Additionally, the CPCB noted that 19 out of 39 monitoring stations in Delhi recorded AQI above 400.
Nearly Half of Delhi’s Monitoring Stations Cross Severe Limits
Pollution hotspots saw a sharp deterioration through Friday morning.
Punjabi Bagh reported an AQI of 417, RK Puram 418, Wazirpur 416, and Narela 407. Other busy zones, including Chandni Chowk (408), Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium (401), and Burari Crossing (403), also showed severe pollution.
Furthermore, Thursday saw heavy smog cover the city. The 24-hour average AQI stood at 377, compared to 327 on Wednesday, 352 on Tuesday, and 382 on Monday. This upward trend signals a persistent rise in toxic particulate matter across the region.
According to CPCB guidelines:
- 0–50 is good
- 51–100 is satisfactory
- 101–200 is moderate
- 201–300 is poor
- 301–400 is very poor
- 401–500 is severe
Friday’s readings show that several Delhi areas have now crossed into the most hazardous category.
Cold Wave and Fog Deepen the Air Pollution Crisis
Weather conditions have worsened the situation. The ongoing cold wave in Delhi and NCR has trapped pollutants close to the ground. Low temperatures combined with fog and weak wind movement have intensified the smog blanket.
Forecasts suggest that Delhi will stay in the “very poor” category over the next few days. Temperatures across Delhi-NCR and North India have dropped to 8–12°C, which reduces atmospheric dispersion.
Moreover, data from IITM’s Decision Support System showed that vehicular emissions were the highest contributors to Delhi’s pollution on Thursday at 19.5%. Ghaziabad added 8.2%, Baghpat 7.3%, while stubble burning contributed just 0.7%.
Schools Reopen as GRAP Restrictions Are Lifted
In a major update, schools across Delhi returned to full physical classes on Thursday. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) lifted GRAP Stage-3 restrictions after a brief improvement earlier in the week.
Additionally, the Directorate of Education withdrew hybrid learning guidelines issued earlier this month. The administration said the improvement was temporary but enough to resume normal operations.
However, parents remain concerned as pollution levels continue to climb again. Health experts advise students to wear masks outdoors, avoid long exposure, and stay hydrated.
Public Health Concerns Rise as AQI Touches Hazardous Levels
Doctors warn that severe AQI levels may lead to respiratory distress, eye irritation, and chronic breathing issues. Children, elderly citizens, and those with asthma face a higher risk.
Moreover, experts stress the need for stronger long-term policies to reduce vehicle emissions, control dust, and improve public transport.
Short-term relief measures help, but the region’s winter pollution pattern remains a yearly concern.