Delhi: Smog chokes as AQI reaches hazardous levels amid rising health concerns

New Delhi: A dense blanket of smog covered Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, and other areas of the National Capital Region (NCR) on Wednesday morning, leading to a sharp decline in visibility. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the air quality index (AQI) remains in the “very poor” category. In Anand Vihar, Delhi, the AQI was recorded at a staggering 393 at 5 a.m.

Swiss-based IQAir’s live ratings painted an even grimmer picture, reporting an AQI of 1133 (hazardous) for Delhi, with PM2.5 identified as the primary pollutant. The smog, coupled with fog and mist, further reduced visibility during the morning hours, with experts warning of prolonged hazy conditions persisting into the evening.

Air Pollution Worsens Across Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh
Stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana has been a major contributor to the deteriorating air quality in the region. Punjab reported 83 new farm fires, bringing the total to 7,112. Chandigarh recorded an AQI of 349, while Punjab's Mandi Gobindgarh, Patiala, and Ludhiana reported AQIs of 269, 245, and 233, respectively. Haryana’s Kaithal (291) and Jind (272) also faced severe pollution levels.

Vice President’s Visit Disrupted by Poor Visibility
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar faced disruptions due to the hazardous air conditions. His plane, unable to land at Halwara airport in Ludhiana, diverted to Amritsar, where it stayed for 40 minutes before he proceeded to Madhya Pradesh. Dhankhar was scheduled to attend the international conference on transforming agrifood systems at Punjab Agricultural University, a session attended instead by Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria and Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann.

Severity of Air Pollution Calls for Immediate Action
The AQI scale ranges from “good” (0-50) to “severe plus” (450+). With Delhi-NCR's AQI crossing hazardous thresholds, residents are advised to take precautions, particularly those with respiratory issues. The persistent smog and worsening air quality highlight the urgent need for sustainable solutions to tackle pollution.