Delhi’s air quality remains a serious concern, with the city blanketed in a dense layer of toxic smog. On Saturday morning, the Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 359, firmly in the ‘very poor’ category. While this shows a marginal improvement from Friday’s 364, residents continue to breathe heavily polluted air.
Several areas are experiencing particularly hazardous conditions. ITO recorded an AQI of 370, and Noida’s Sector 125 registered a concerning 434, though a slight dip from the previous day. In contrast, Greater Noida’s Knowledge Park 5 saw an AQI of 393, while Knowledge Park 3 offered some relief at 294, classified as ‘poor’.
The Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport area reported an AQI of 296 at 7 AM, also in the ‘poor’ range. Iconic landmarks like India Gate were shrouded in smog, with an AQI of 370. The situation was more severe near Akshardham, where the AQI reached a ‘severe’ 422.
Industrial zones like Bawana reported a ‘severe’ AQI of 419. Anand Vihar faced similar conditions with an AQI of 422, while Ashok Vihar was at 403. Other areas like Aya Nagar (330) and Rohini (414) also experienced ‘very poor’ to ‘severe’ air quality.
Across the National Capital Region (NCR), Gurugram’s Sector 51 recorded an AQI of 323. Teri Gram had a ‘poor’ AQI of 212, and NISE Gwal Pahari registered 312.
In response to the deteriorating air, the Delhi High Court has banned all outdoor sports events, acknowledging the health risks posed to children. The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage 3 restrictions, implemented since November 11, remain in effect, imposing stricter controls on construction, vehicles, and industries to curb emissions.