Delhi's AQI crosses 300 for first time this season, more smog expected in coming days

Air pollution levels in the national capital deteriorated sharply on Monday, with Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) crossing the 300 mark for the first time this season. The worsening air quality has raised concerns among residents, with meteorologists warning that unfavourable weather conditions could lead to increased smog across Delhi-NCR over the coming days. According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi's AQI stood at 307 around 7:05 am, placing it in the 'Very Poor' category. Several monitoring stations across the city also recorded elevated pollution levels, with Jahangirpuri reporting an AQI of 417, falling in the 'Severe' category.

The deterioration comes after a brief improvement in air quality following rainfall last week. Delhi had recorded an AQI of 60 on October 30, its cleanest October reading in four years. However, pollution levels increased over the weekend, with the city's 24-hour average AQI reaching 261 on Sunday before crossing the 300 threshold on Monday morning.

Data from monitoring stations showed that 36 of the 58 stations reporting readings were in the Very Poor category, indicating that the pollution was affecting several parts of the capital. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) remained the dominant pollutant at most monitoring stations. These tiny particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and pose serious health risks, particularly for children, elderly people and individuals suffering from respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.

The rise in pollution has been attributed to a combination of factors, including vehicular emissions, road dust, construction activities, industrial pollution and agricultural residue burning in neighbouring states. Satellite observations recorded 1,394 farm fire incidents in Punjab and Haryana between October 1 and November 1. Punjab accounted for 1,249 incidents, while Haryana reported 145. As many as 171 farm fires were detected on November 1.

Weather conditions are also adding to concerns. Meteorologist Navdeep Dahiya has warned that the smog season has begun, with relatively calm atmospheric conditions and northwesterly winds potentially contributing to the accumulation of pollutants across the region. He indicated that favourable conditions for clearing pollution may remain absent over the next seven to ten days.

Low wind speeds and stable atmospheric conditions often prevent pollutants from dispersing, allowing them to accumulate near the ground and intensify the smog covering Delhi and neighbouring areas. With the AQI entering the Very Poor category, residents have been advised to limit prolonged outdoor exposure and avoid strenuous physical activities in heavily polluted areas. People with existing respiratory and heart conditions, along with children and senior citizens, are particularly vulnerable to the effects of poor air quality.

The latest deterioration signals the beginning of another challenging pollution season for the national capital, with the possibility of further smog episodes as winter approaches. Authorities and residents are likely to face renewed concerns over public health as Delhi's air quality remains under pressure.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Hindustan Times.