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Pollution control

Delhi Chokes Under Thick Smog as Air Quality Plunges to 'Severe' Levels

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

As the Indian capital Delhi woke up on Thursday, October 30, residents were met with a thick blanket of smog, severely affecting visibility and public health. The Central Pollution Control Board reported pollution levels breaching the 400 mark in several areas, with the AQI at Akshardham reaching 409, one of the highest readings in the capital. The situation has left health experts warning of a rise in respiratory and eye-related ailments, with residents complaining of irritation in the eyes and throat, breathing difficulties, and a strong smell of smoke hanging in the air.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Air Quality Index (AQI) in several parts of Delhi, including Akshardham, Ashok Vihar, Aya Nagar, Bawana, and Burari Crossing, recorded 'Very Poor' to 'Severe' levels, with AQI reaching 409 in Akshardham.
  • Residents reported hazy skies and a visible reduction in sunlight during morning hours, with health concerns rising as visibility falls.
  • Medical professionals warned of a rise in respiratory and eye-related ailments, urging citizens to stay indoors where possible and use protective masks when stepping out.
  • Resident complained of irritation in the eyes and throat, breathing difficulties, and a strong smell of smoke hanging in the air.
  • Authorities deployed truck-mounted water sprinklers in several zones to settle dust and control the worsening smog.
  • Delhi's air quality has remained among the most polluted in the world, despite the failed attempt to bring artificial rain through cloud-seeding.

Statistics:

  • The AQI at Akshardham reached 409, one of the highest readings in the capital.
  • Several neighbourhoods recorded AQI levels categorised as 'Very Poor' to 'Severe', with Bawana, Jahangirpuri, and Burari Crossing reporting severe air pollution levels.
  • The number of monitoring stations reported figures well above the safe limit, with most stations in North and East Delhi, including Bawana, Jahangirpuri, and Burari Crossing, reporting severe air pollution levels.
  • AQI levels across key areas: Akshardham - 409, Ashok Vihar - 385, Aya Nagar - 322, Bawana - 382, Burari Crossing - 366, CRRI Mathura Road - 332, Dr Karni Singh Shooting Range - 350, DTU - 259, Dwarka - 367, IGI Airport - 316, Dilshad Garden - 363, ITO, Delhi - 365, Jahangirpuri - 385, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium - 356, Lodhi Road - 325.

Sources:

  • Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)
  • Indian National Press (Bombay) Pvt. Ltd.
  • Contify.com

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