Delhi struggles to breathe as AQI remains in ‘very poor’ range, government implements new anti-pollution tactics

New Delhi: Delhi’s air quality remained in the “very poor” range on Saturday, marking nine days of severe smog following Diwali. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 358 at 9 a.m. The severe air pollution was particularly visible around Kartavya Path, where a dense layer of smog shrouded the surroundings. Data from the Central Pollution Control Board's (CPCB) Sameer App indicated that the air quality at Bawana and New Moti Bagh stations hit a “severe” level, both recording AQIs of 409.

Emergency Measures: Sprinklers and Mist Spraying

A video by ANI showed a truck-mounted water sprinkler releasing fine water droplets to mitigate the hazardous air quality. The Delhi government also tested a new “drone-based mist spraying” method on Friday in Anand Vihar, one of the city’s pollution hotspots. Environment Minister Gopal Rai explained that this innovative technology, capable of carrying up to 15 liters of water, can access congested areas to disperse pollutants. The results of the drone tests will be analyzed by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) for further evaluation.

Citywide Efforts Under Winter Action Plan

The drone trial is part of a broader Winter Action Plan, which includes 21 measures to combat pollution. The government has also deployed “80 mobile anti-smog guns and 68 static anti-smog guns” in pollution hotspots. Further, 200 mobile anti-smog guns are now operating across Delhi's 70 Assembly constituencies, and 146 more have been installed on high-rise buildings to address airborne dust. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has intensified inspections, with officials monitoring construction sites to ensure compliance with pollution regulations.

Severe Health Impact on Residents

As AQI levels surge, many Delhi residents have voiced concerns about the impact on their health. In an ANI interview, one resident described the increase in respiratory problems and other health issues, especially among the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions. Another resident commented, “Pollution affects everyone; there’s no single cause or solution. Stubble burning, vehicle emissions, and Diwali crackers have all contributed to the problem.”

Bobby Bhalotra, Vice Chairman of Respiratory Medicine at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, highlighted a link between worsening AQI levels and respiratory conditions. “As AQI rises, we’re seeing more patients struggling with breathlessness and sleepless nights due to persistent coughing,” he said. He emphasized that individuals with asthma, COPD, and those working in dusty environments, like police personnel, are especially vulnerable, urging citizens to minimize exposure and take personal measures to reduce pollution.