Is Delhi Choking Under Smog with an AQI of 391?
Synopsis
Delhi's persistent struggle with air pollution continues as the city wakes up to a AQI of 391, marking the air quality as 'very poor'. With neighboring Noida facing even worse conditions, this report delves into the alarming statistics and the measures being taken to combat this environmental crisis.
Key Takeaways
Delhi's AQI is currently at 391, classified as 'very poor'.
Noida's AQI reached a severe level of 415.
20 out of 39 air quality monitoring stations reported severe conditions.
Immediate health risks are posed to residents due to poor air quality.
The IMD has issued a yellow alert for fog and cold weather.
New Delhi, Dec 28 (NationPress) The air quality in Delhi has plunged into the 'very poor' category this morning, as residents in various regions of the national capital awakened to a dense blanket of smog, further emphasizing the ongoing pollution crisis the city faces.
While Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) lingered near the brink of the 'very poor' classification, neighboring Noida experienced 'severe' air quality conditions, with an AQI soaring to 415.
As per the Sameer app data crafted by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi's overall AQI was recorded at 391 at 6:05 a.m. on Sunday.
Among the 39 operational air quality monitoring stations across the city, 20 reported air quality within the 'severe' category.
Areas hardest hit included Anand Vihar with an AQI of 445, followed closely by Shadipur at 443, Jahangirpuri at 430, Chandni Chowk at 415, and Wazirpur at 443.
Other locations like ITO reported an AQI of 402, while NSIT Dwarka fared better at 214.
According to the CPCB's classification, an AQI reading of 51 to 100 is 'satisfactory', 101 to 200 is 'moderate', 201 to 300 is 'poor', 301 to 400 is 'very poor', and any readings above 400 are categorized as 'severe'.
On Saturday, the air quality in the national capital fell into the 'severe' range, with an AQI of 385 categorized as 'very poor' reported at 4 p.m. Official updates indicated that pollution levels deteriorated throughout the day, escalating to 390 by 6 p.m. and reaching 391 by 10 p.m.
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Sunday morning in Delhi, cautioning residents of dense fog and cold wave-like conditions in the region.
Meteorological specialists have warned that the pollution levels may remain high over the coming days due to a series of western disturbances anticipated to affect north India.
In light of the current situation, the weather department has reiterated its yellow alert, advising residents of moderate to dense fog across Delhi and surrounding areas.
Point of View
It is vital to recognize the ongoing air quality crisis impacting Delhi. The alarming AQI levels serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for effective pollution control measures. While the government works on long-term solutions, immediate action is necessary to safeguard the health of our citizens.
NationPress
7 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current AQI level in Delhi?
As of December 28, Delhi's AQI stands at 391, categorizing it in the 'very poor' range.
Which areas in Delhi are most affected by smog?
Areas like Anand Vihar, Shadipur, and Jahangirpuri are among the worst affected, with AQI readings over 430.
What health risks are associated with high AQI levels?
High AQI levels can lead to respiratory issues, aggravation of heart diseases, and other serious health concerns.
What measures can residents take to protect themselves?
Residents are advised to stay indoors, use air purifiers, and wear masks when going outside.
What is the expected weather in Delhi?
The India Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for dense fog and cold wave-like conditions.
