Delhi-NCR Chokes as AQI Crosses 400 Mark

New Delhi: As winter settles over Delhi-NCR, the cold is being overshadowed by worsening air quality, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) touching the 400 mark in several areas.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has reported that the minimum temperature will hover around 13°C for the next week, accompanied by foggy mornings and chilly winds.

Delhi recently recorded its coldest night of the season at 12.7°C, the first time this year that temperatures dipped below 15°C. However, the falling mercury has also worsened pollution levels across the region.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), AQI levels in areas like Alipur (355), Anand Vihar (359), Ashok Vihar (363), Bawana (403), Burari (376), and Karni Singh Shooting Range (342) have reached “very poor” to “severe” categories.

Neighbouring regions are facing similar conditions. In Ghaziabad, Vasundhara (368) and Loni (336) recorded severe pollution levels, while Noida sectors 1, 62, 116, and 125 reported AQI between 320–333.

Health experts have warned that prolonged exposure to such toxic air can increase the risk of respiratory and heart diseases, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with existing health conditions.

The IMD attributes the worsening pollution to stagnant winds and falling temperatures that trap pollutants close to the surface.

The combined effect of fog and smog has created dense haze across the city. Vehicular emissions, construction dust, and industrial activity continue to be key contributors.

Doctors advise residents to reduce outdoor activities during mornings and evenings, wear protective masks, and use air purifiers indoors to limit exposure to harmful pollutants.