Delhi’s Air Pollution Turns Severe Again; AQI Crosses 400 at 33 Monitoring Stations

Air pollution in the national capital Delhi has once again deteriorated to the severe category. The Air Quality Index (AQI) rose to 402 on Friday, while a thick blanket of smog engulfed the city, significantly reducing visibility.

According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), 33 of Delhi’s 58 air quality monitoring stations recorded pollution levels in the severe category. Several locations reported AQI levels above 450.

IIT Delhi recorded the highest AQI at 487, followed by Chandni Chowk and North Campus at 476 each. Pusa recorded 468, while Jaffarpur registered 461.

Other areas also reported alarming pollution levels, with Mathura Road recording 455, ITO and Burari Crossing 453 each, and JNU registering 451. Aya Nagar recorded an AQI of 433.

Slight Relief Expected After November 16

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that Delhi’s air quality is likely to fluctuate between the ‘Very Poor’ and ‘Severe’ categories until November 16. An improvement in wind speed thereafter is expected to provide some relief from pollution.

Air quality in other cities across the National Capital Region (NCR) was relatively better than in Delhi. According to data recorded at 5 am, Ghaziabad registered an AQI of 377, Noida 369 and Gurugram 349.

Pollution Worsens After Diwali

Air pollution in Delhi intensified following Diwali. Stubble burning in neighbouring states, along with unfavourable weather conditions, has contributed to the deterioration in air quality.

Delhi’s average AQI stood at 323 on Thursday. However, after a temporary improvement, pollution levels climbed back into the severe category on Friday.

Meanwhile, officials have been directed to conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance with restrictions and tighten regulations at construction sites.