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.
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 |