A perilous mix of hazardous air pollution and piercing winter chill has gripped the National Capital Region, turning everyday life into a survival challenge. Delhi’s AQI crossed the 450 mark yesterday, categorizing the air as ‘severe plus,’ while mercury levels hovered dangerously low amid dense fog.
Hospitals are overwhelmed with cases of pollution-induced illnesses. Emergency rooms see queues of coughing children and wheezing seniors, as toxic particulate matter infiltrates lungs. ‘This is a public health emergency; PM2.5 levels are 20 times the safe limit,’ warned environmental activist Vandana Singh.
The biting cold, dipping to 3°C in parts of NCR, has compounded the woes. Dense fog has grounded over 100 flights at Delhi’s airports and caused pile-ups on highways. Authorities have activated the highest GRAP protocols, shutting schools, markets, and halting diesel generators.
Stubble burning from Punjab and Haryana contributes 40% to the smog, according to satellite data from ISRO. Combined with Delhi’s traffic fumes and construction dust, it’s a recipe for disaster. The CAQM urges citizens to avoid outdoor activities between 8 AM and 5 PM and use public transport.
As the ordeal persists, policymakers face scrutiny over enforcement. Alternative crop management and electric vehicle adoption emerge as urgent needs. NCR residents huddle indoors, ventilators humming, awaiting relief from this toxic winter siege.