Delhi residents continue to breathe dangerously polluted air as the city's air quality remains firmly in the 'very poor' category. The latest data reveals concerning pollution levels that show no signs of immediate improvement.
Current Air Quality Status and Measurements
The capital city recorded an overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of 340 on Monday morning, maintaining the 'very poor' classification that has plagued the region. According to the Central Pollution Control Board's 7 AM update, the concentration of PM2.5, the most hazardous pollutant, exceeded safe limits by five to six times across multiple monitoring stations.
Data from the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR) showed PM2.5 levels reaching 170 in the Delhi University area, while the IIT Delhi station recorded 169. The Lodhi Road monitoring station reported slightly better but still unhealthy readings of 161. These figures significantly exceed the national safe standard of 60 micrograms per cubic meter and represent a serious health concern for the city's residents.
Geographical Distribution and Weather Impact
Pollution levels varied across different parts of the National Capital Region, painting a grim picture of widespread air quality deterioration. Neighboring cities reported even worse conditions, with Ghaziabad recording an AQI of 367, Greater Noida at 358, Gurugram at 336, and Noida at 348. All these areas fell squarely within the 'very poor' category, indicating a regional pollution crisis rather than isolated incidents.
Meteorological conditions have played a significant role in the persistent pollution. The India Meteorological Department reported calm wind conditions and low temperatures during the morning hours, creating atmospheric conditions that trap pollutants close to the ground. The minimum temperature settled at 12.6 degrees Celsius, while relative humidity reached 89 percent at 8:30 AM, further contributing to the formation and persistence of harmful particulate matter.
Government Response and GRAP Measures
In response to the deteriorating air quality, authorities have activated Stage 1 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This initial phase includes several important measures designed to curb pollution levels. Construction and demolition activities have been strictly banned across the entire National Capital Region, targeting a major source of particulate matter pollution.
The Commission for Air Quality Management has mandated that all responsible agencies intensify patrolling and enforcement efforts. Their focus includes ensuring proper dust control measures at construction sites, monitoring industrial emissions, and regulating vehicular pollution. These coordinated efforts aim to prevent further deterioration of air quality while authorities remain prepared to implement more stringent measures if conditions worsen.
The persistent 'very poor' air quality classification indicates that pollution levels may cause respiratory illness upon prolonged exposure. Health experts advise vulnerable groups, including children, elderly citizens, and people with pre-existing respiratory or cardiac conditions, to limit outdoor activities and take necessary precautions until air quality shows significant improvement.
