Delhi Air Quality Deteriorates to 'Very Poor' with AQI at 366
Delhi's air quality plunged to 'very poor' on Sunday, with an AQI of 366. Three monitoring stations recorded 'severe' levels above 400. PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations rose sharply, posing health risks. Neighbouring NCR cities also saw high pollution. Weak winds and low ventilation index trapped pollutants, with poor air expected to persist until November 4.
Delhi's air quality sharply deteriorated on Sunday, reaching an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 366, which falls in the 'very poor' category according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Three monitoring stations recorded AQI levels above 400, classifying them as 'severe'. The concentration of PM2.5 particles reached 189.6 micrograms per cubic metre, and PM10 levels hit 316, both posing significant health risks, especially for vulnerable groups. The AQI jumped from 303 the previous day, indicating a rapid decline. Neighbouring cities in the National Capital Region, including Ghaziabad, Gurugram, Noida, and Greater Noida, also experienced 'very poor' air quality. Faridabad was slightly better with an AQI of 215. Weak winds below 8 kmph and a low ventilation index prevented pollutants from dispersing, with the Air Quality Early Warning System forecasting continued 'very poor' conditions until November 4. Wazirpur recorded the highest AQI at 413, while 28 stations across Delhi reported 'very poor' levels. The India Meteorological Department noted a maximum temperature of 30.7°C and a minimum of 16.8°C, with humidity at 75%. Shallow fog is expected, and Delhi has banned entry of commercial vehicles not meeting BS-III emission standards to curb pollution. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activities, especially during early morning and late evening hours.
