Pollution continues to rise daily, and air quality in Delhi has reached alarming levels. This morning, various areas have been shrouded in a thick layer of dust. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Air Quality Index (AQI) in many regions of Delhi has fallen into the ‘very low’ category.
In several areas, including Anand Bihar, the AQI has exceeded 400, causing significant issues for residents. While emissions from stubble burning, vehicles, and industries have decreased, construction dust has contributed to the city’s critical air quality. Despite numerous measures to combat pollution, Delhi residents remain concerned as levels continue to rise.
People are struggling to breathe and experiencing burning eyes and sore throats. Areas such as Anand Bihar, Ashok Bihar, Bawana, Dwarka, Jahangirpuri, Mundka, NIST Dwarka, Najafgarh, Nehru Nagar, Patpadganj, Punjabi Bagh, Rohna, Wazirpur, and Vivek Bihar report the worst air quality. At 6 a.m., the AQI stood at 432 in Anand Bihar, 406 in Bawana, 411 in Wazirpur, 418 in Vivek Bihar, 402 in Mundka, and 412 in Jahangirpuri.
The situation worsened significantly after the Diwali celebrations, with surveys indicating that air quality in Delhi-NCR has deteriorated. Currently, pollution levels in Delhi exceed World Health Organization standards by 65 per cent. Consequently, around 69 per cent of families in Delhi suffer from various pollution-related illnesses, including sore throats and coughs.
A survey by the digital platform Local Circle, which collected responses from over 21,000 residents in Delhi-NCR, highlights the widespread impact of air pollution. The survey reveals that in 62% of households, one or more members have experienced issues such as burning eyes, while 46% reported burning noses due to increased pollution.