No Respite For Delhiites As Air Quality Hits ‘Severe’, AQI Crosses 400 in Several Areas

New Delhi: The National Capital is gasping for breath as the Air Quality Index (AQI) plunges into the ‘Severe’ category in several areas, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Official data reveals that at 6 a.m., Anand Vihar and Ashok Vihar were choking under ‘severe’ air quality with AQI readings of 412 and 405, respectively. The situation was no different in Jahangirpuri and Dwarka sector -8, where the AQI was recorded at 411 and 405 respectively, also falling in the ‘severe’ category.

Anuj Kumar, a local resident, pointed an accusing finger at the government for its inadequate efforts to curb pollution levels. “Delhi is shrouded in pollution. Our morning walks are marred by breathing difficulties. Despite the slight reduction in pollution due to the rain, the air quality remains poor. The government’s efforts are insufficient… The pollution is alarmingly high”, he lamented.

A masked senior citizen echoed similar sentiments while speaking to ANI, complaining of respiratory issues amid the severe air quality. “The pollution levels are dangerously high. It’s hazardous for humans… We are compelled to wear masks during our morning walks… As a senior citizen, I experience breathing difficulties within 10 minutes of my walk. The ongoing construction work and lack of rain are exacerbating the pollution levels…”

Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai announced on Wednesday that Grap-3 has been lifted in the national capital, but the government is striving to ensure strict implementation of Grap-1 and 2. The AQI scale classifies 0 to 100 as ‘good’, 100 to 200 as ‘moderate’, 200 to 300 as ‘poor’, 300 to 400 as ‘very poor’, and 400 to 500 or above as ‘severe’.