Is Delhi Still Suffocating Under Toxic Air?
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Synopsis
New Delhi grapples with severe air pollution as winter conditions worsen, with AQI levels exceeding 400 across many areas. Environment officials intensify efforts to combat pollution, while stubble burning and vehicular emissions remain significant contributors. As the cold sets in, residents face hazardous air quality and severe cold-wave warnings.
Key Takeaways
- Delhi's air quality is critically poor, with AQI levels above 400.
- PM10 emissions and stubble burning are major pollution contributors.
- The government is ramping up efforts to combat pollution.
- Residents are facing severe health risks due to hazardous air conditions.
- Cold temperatures are worsening the smog situation.
New Delhi, Nov 16 (NationPress) The city continues to be enveloped in hazardous air conditions this Sunday, as the pollution levels exhibit no sign of relief with the onset of winter. Residents woke up to yet another day of perilous smog, as the Air Quality Index (AQI) soared above 400 at most monitoring locations, firmly placing the metropolis in the 'severe' category.
At 8 a.m., data from the CPCB revealed that Ashok Vihar recorded an AQI of 421, Rohini 422, ITO 417, and Punjabi Bagh 410.
The CPCB categorizes an AQI between 401 and 500 as 'severe', indicating that all age groups are at serious health risk.
On Saturday, Delhi's Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa highlighted that the national capital is grappling with severe pollution primarily due to PM10 emissions from construction activities, dusty roads, and intense traffic congestion.
He mentioned that the government is intensifying efforts to identify and address pollution hotspots across the city.
The drop in temperatures is exacerbating the issue, causing accumulated dust to settle in the air and transform into thick smog.
Sirsa also noted that emissions from industrial units relocated to nearby states are drifting into Delhi's airspace, worsening the situation.
According to the Decision Support System (DSS) of IITM Pune, stubble burning accounted for 16.3% of Delhi's pollution load on Saturday, while vehicular emissions contributed 18.3%—the highest among all sources.
DSS forecasts that stubble burning will comprise 14.5% of the city’s pollution on Sunday.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted mist or shallow fog during the morning hours, with partly cloudy skies expected on November 18 and 19.
The maximum temperature is anticipated to remain between 24 and 26 degrees Celsius, while the minimum may hover around 12 degrees Celsius.
Amidst Delhi's suffocating air, the IMD has also issued severe cold-wave alerts for vast sections of central India.
Point of View
I assert that the air quality crisis in Delhi is a pressing concern that needs immediate attention. With pollution levels reaching alarming heights, it is crucial for authorities to implement effective strategies to mitigate the impact on public health. The collaboration among government agencies, residents, and environmentalists is essential to navigate this challenging situation responsibly.
NationPress
16/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current AQI level in Delhi?
As of November 16, the AQI levels in various areas of Delhi have crossed 400, indicating severe air quality conditions.
What are the main causes of pollution in Delhi?
The primary contributors to Delhi's pollution include PM10 emissions from construction activities, heavy traffic, and stubble burning.
What health risks are associated with severe air quality?
Severe air quality poses serious health risks for all age groups, including respiratory issues and cardiovascular problems.
How is the government addressing the pollution issue?
The government is intensifying efforts to identify pollution hotspots and implement measures to reduce emissions across the city.
What weather conditions are expected in the coming days?
The IMD has forecast mist or shallow fog during morning hours, with maximum temperatures expected between 24 and 26 degrees Celsius.
