By: The Trek News Desk
New Delhi woke up to hazardous air conditions on Saturday as thick smog once again blanketed the national capital. The city’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 397, placing it dangerously close to the ‘severe’ category and raising serious health concerns for residents.
Data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) showed that air quality deteriorated sharply across the city, with 21 monitoring stations recording AQI levels above 400, officially pushing these areas into the ‘severe’ pollution bracket.
Most Polluted Areas in the Capital
According to CPCB readings, Wazirpur emerged as the most polluted locality, registering an AQI of 445. Vivek Vihar followed closely with a reading of 444, while Jahangirpuri recorded 442. Anand Vihar reported an AQI of 439, and both Ashok Vihar and Rohini stood at 437 each.
Several other parts of the city also witnessed alarming pollution levels. Narela recorded an AQI of 432, Pratapganj 431, and Mundka 430. AQI values of 429 were reported from Bawana, ITO, and Nehru Nagar.
In central and south Delhi, Chandni Chowk and Punjabi Bagh logged AQI levels of 423, while Siri Fort and Sonia Vihar each recorded AQI levels of 424. Burari Crossing reported an AQI of 414, followed by Karni Singh Shooting Range at 409. North Campus and RK Puram stood at 408, while Okhla Phase-2 recorded 404.
Understanding AQI Categories
As per CPCB guidelines:
- 0–50: Good
- 51–100: Satisfactory
- 101–200: Moderate
- 201–300: Poor
- 301–400: Very Poor
- 401–500: Severe
Outlook Remains Grim
The Air Quality Early Warning System has cautioned that Delhi’s air is likely to remain in the ‘very poor’ category through Saturday and may further deteriorate into the ‘severe’ range on Sunday, December 14.
Health experts have advised children, senior citizens, and individuals with respiratory or cardiac conditions to avoid outdoor activities unless necessary. The persistently high pollution levels are not only disrupting daily life in the capital but also posing a serious long-term threat to public health.
Source: News Agencies
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