The air pollution crisis in Delhi-NCR shows no signs of abatement, with air quality levels remaining firmly in the 'severe' category. According to data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) at 4:00 pm on Friday, the Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded above 400 at several key monitoring stations across the capital.

Severe Hotspots Identified

The situation is most critical in Anand Vihar, where the AQI soared to 434, followed closely by Punjabi Bagh at 430 and Vivek Vihar at 423. Other areas reporting severe pollution levels include:

  • Nehru Nagar: 417
  • RK Puram: 417
  • Patparganj: 409
  • Okhla: 405
  • Jahangirpuri And Wazirpur: 402

Even areas with comparatively lower readings, such as Dwarka Sector 8 (398) and Ashok Vihar (392), are hovering dangerously close to the severe mark.

Causes And Impact

Meteorological conditions, specifically dense fog and stagnant winds, are trapping pollutants and exacerbating the crisis. The hazardous air quality has significantly heightened health risks for residents. Authorities have issued advisories urging people to stay indoors, use masks, and avoid non-essential travel. The dense smog has also disrupted road and air traffic due to poor visibility.

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Government Measures

Struggle to Make Impact: Despite the implementation of Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-4), challenges in controlling pollution persist. The Delhi government has enforced several strict measures, including:

Refusal of fuel: Since December 18, petrol pumps have been instructed not to provide fuel to vehicles without a valid pollution certificate.

Construction Ban: A halt on construction activities.

Work from Home: Implementation of remote working for offices.

However, despite these stringent steps, there has been no visible reduction in pollution levels so far.

Area-Wise AQI Snapshot (CPCB Data)

Area AQI Status
Anand Vihar 434 Severe
Punjabi Bagh 430 Severe
Vivek Vihar 423 Severe
Nehru Nagar 417 Severe
RK Puram 417 Severe
Patparganj 409 Severe
Okhla 405 Severe
Dwarka Sec-8 398 Very Poor
Mundka 397 Very Poor
Ashok Vihar 392 Very Poor
Rohini 385 Very Poor
Chandni Chowk 384 Very Poor
Bawana 354 Very Poor
Narela 352 Very Poor

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