The national capital Delhi and its surrounding NCR region are currently grappling with a severe air pollution crisis amidst a harsh winter chill, while residents are experiencing significant breathing difficulties, a situation deemed extremely hazardous to health. A thick blanket of smog has enveloped Delhi, drastically reducing visibility even during daylight hours, creating a challenging environment for daily life.
Air pollution in Delhi-NCR has peaked, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) consistently registering in the 'Severe' category, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
The average AQI across various parts of the capital has been recorded at around 470. This alarming figure indicates an extremely high concentration of pollutants in the air, posing. Significant health risks even to healthy individuals and potentially life-threatening dangers to vulnerable populations. In light of this critical situation, residents are strongly advised to remain indoors and avoid outdoor activities as much as possible.
Alarming AQI Levels Across Key Localities
The Air Quality Index (AQI) in several prominent areas of Delhi has reached alarming levels, while the Akshardham area recorded an AQI of 493, nearing the upper limit of the 'Severe' category. Similarly, Sardar Patel Marg registered an AQI of 483, Barakhamba Road 474, Dwarka Sector-14 469, and Barapullah Flyover 433. Pandit Pant Marg also reported an AQI of 417. These figures clearly illustrate that no part of Delhi-NCR is immune to this severe air pollution, and air quality remains extremely poor across the entire region, necessitating immediate attention and action.
Visibility Plummets, Traffic Slows to a Crawl
The dense layer of smog has led to Importantly reduced visibility in many parts of Delhi. This situation becomes particularly acute during the morning hours, severely impacting road traffic. Vehicles are seen crawling at a snail's pace, with drivers forced to use headlights even in broad daylight to navigate the roads. Busy thoroughfares like Barakhamba Road and Pandit Pant Marg recorded AQIs of 474 and 417 respectively at 6 AM, highlighting the dangerous pollution levels from the very start of the day, while the diminished visibility also heightens the risk of accidents, requiring both commuters and drivers to exercise extreme caution.
Understanding the Air Quality Index Categories
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) categorizes the Air Quality Index (AQI) into different bands to help the public understand pollution levels and their potential health impacts. An AQI between 0-50 is considered 'Good', while 51-100 is 'Satisfactory', while an AQI of 101-200 falls into the 'Moderate' category, and 201-300 is deemed 'Poor'. 'Very Poor' is assigned to an AQI of 301-400, and the current readings in Delhi-NCR, which are between 401-500, fall under the 'Severe' category. This classification system aids individuals in taking necessary precautions based on the prevailing pollution levels.
Serious Health Risks and Precautionary Measures
A 'Severe' category AQI is considered extremely dangerous even for healthy individuals. At this level of pollution, common health issues include breathing difficulties, coughing, sore throat, and eye irritation. Prolonged exposure to such an environment can lead to severe lung and heart-related diseases. Children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions are particularly vulnerable. Experts advise people to stay indoors as much as possible, avoid outdoor activities, and refrain from exercising in the open. If stepping out is unavoidable, it's recommended to use N95 masks and opt for public transport to reduce vehicular emissions. Using air purifiers indoors and keeping windows closed can also be beneficial in mitigating exposure to the hazardous air.
This ongoing air pollution crisis in Delhi-NCR represents a serious public health emergency, demanding immediate and effective solutions to safeguard the well-being of its residents.
