Has Delhi's Air Quality Plummeted to ‘Very Poor’ Levels with AQI Over 300?
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Synopsis
As Delhi grapples with air quality issues, the AQI has surpassed 300, signaling a return to 'very poor' conditions. This alarming trend has sparked protests and demands for accountability in pollution management. The city's air quality is forecasted to stay in this concerning range for several more days.
Key Takeaways
- Delhi's AQI has crossed 300, indicating 'very poor' air quality.
- Major contributors include stubble burning and vehicular emissions.
- Protests are emerging, demanding government accountability.
- Air quality is expected to remain poor until at least November 8.
- Public health is at risk due to deteriorating environmental conditions.
New Delhi, Nov 7 (NationPress) The air quality in Delhi has significantly deteriorated, entering the “very poor” category early Friday, as the city's AQI (Air Quality Index) surpassed 300 in many areas, as reported by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
At 7:00 a.m., the average AQI for Delhi was recorded at 312, marking a drastic decline in air quality following two days of relative improvement. Surrounding regions also reported elevated AQI levels: Faridabad at 295, Gurugram at 288, Ghaziabad at 296, Greater Noida at 275, and Noida at 289. Most areas in Delhi witnessed AQI levels between 300 and 400, indicating a state of “very poor” air quality.
A thick grey haze enveloped the city on Friday, resulting in reduced visibility and a persistent layer of smog across critical locations.
Near Chandni Chowk, the AQI peaked at 350, while Indira Gandhi International Airport recorded an AQI of 290, categorizing it as “poor”.
Authorities have linked this decline in air quality to decreasing temperatures and an increase in crop residue burning in adjacent states such as Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.
The Decision Support System (DSS) for air quality forecasting indicated that stubble burning was responsible for 21.5% of Delhi's PM2.5 levels on Thursday, with expectations for this percentage to rise to 36.9% on Friday and remain high at 32.4% on Saturday.
Satellite imagery identified 94 instances of stubble burning in Punjab, 13 in Haryana, and 74 in Uttar Pradesh on just Wednesday.
Since Diwali, Delhi's air quality has fluctuated between “poor” and “very poor”, occasionally reaching “severe” levels. Environmentalists and student activists protested at Jantar Mantar on Thursday, demanding government accountability regarding pollution and urging citizens to claim their right to clean air and public health.
Forecasts suggest that Delhi's air quality will likely remain in the “very poor” category until at least November 8, as authorities keep a close watch on pollution levels and stubble-burning activities in the vicinity.
Point of View
The persistent air quality crisis in Delhi underscores the urgent need for effective pollution management strategies. While short-term actions are necessary, long-term solutions, including sustainable agricultural practices and stricter enforcement of environmental regulations, must be prioritized to ensure public health and environmental safety.
NationPress
08/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is AQI?
AQI, or Air Quality Index, is a measure used to communicate how polluted the air currently is or how polluted it is forecast to become. It indicates the level of health concern associated with air quality.
What causes the poor air quality in Delhi?
Poor air quality in Delhi is primarily caused by factors such as stubble burning in neighboring states, increased vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, and seasonal weather patterns.
What are the health effects of high AQI levels?
High AQI levels can lead to serious health issues, including respiratory problems, cardiovascular diseases, and can exacerbate pre-existing health conditions, particularly affecting vulnerable populations.
What measures can be taken to improve air quality?
To improve air quality, measures such as reducing vehicle emissions, promoting cleaner fuels, implementing stricter industrial regulations, and increasing public awareness about pollution can be effective.
How can citizens protect themselves from poor air quality?
Citizens can protect themselves by staying indoors during high pollution days, using air purifiers, wearing masks when outside, and advocating for cleaner air initiatives in their communities.
