Delhi's Air Quality Index Reaches 482 Amid Severe Pollution
On Thursday morning, Delhi's air quality deteriorated significantly, with the AQI soaring to 482, indicating severe pollution levels across the city.
Seven monitoring stations in Delhi recorded AQI levels above 400.
Despite reduced stubble-burning incidents, pollution levels remain critically high.
Healthcare professionals report an increase in respiratory issues among residents.
On Thursday, the air quality in Delhi plunged into severe levels, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) hitting 482 at 8:01 AM. This alarming figure reflects the ongoing pollution crisis affecting various parts of the national capital, where multiple areas reported hazardous air quality levels.
Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) revealed that seven monitoring stations recorded AQI levels exceeding 400, categorizing them as severe. Punjabi Bagh topped the list with an AQI of 446, followed closely by Narela at 434 and Rohini at 431. Other areas such as RK Puram, Bawana, North Campus of Delhi University, and Patparganj also reported AQI levels above 400, indicating a widespread air quality crisis.
In addition to the severely affected areas, several locations recorded poor air quality, including Okhla Phase-2 and India Gate, both at 399, and ITO at 397. Anand Vihar and IMD Lodhi Road reported AQI levels of 293 and 268, respectively, still falling within the poor category. The persistence of these high pollution levels has raised concerns among health officials and residents alike.
Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav addressed the situation, stating that the Centre's air quality panel is actively monitoring meteorological conditions, including wind patterns and air movement. He emphasized that despite a decrease in stubble-burning incidents compared to previous years, the air quality remains critically poor. Yadav noted that approximately 40% of paddy stubble has been managed through alternative methods this season, yet the impact on air quality has not been as expected.
Healthcare professionals are witnessing a surge in respiratory issues among patients due to the deteriorating air quality. Dr. Saurabh Mittal from AIIMS, Delhi, reported an increase in patients experiencing exacerbated symptoms of pre-existing respiratory conditions. He indicated that many previously asymptomatic individuals are now developing respiratory problems, necessitating increased medication and treatment. As pollution levels remain high, experts anticipate a continued rise in health-related issues in the coming weeks, underscoring the urgent need for effective pollution control measures.
