Is Post-Diwali Smog Choking NCR? Jind, Dharuhera, Bahadurgarh Among India's Most Polluted Cities
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Synopsis
The air quality in northern India has taken a severe hit following Diwali celebrations. With cities like Jind and Dharuhera topping pollution charts, health experts warn of respiratory risks. This article delves into the alarming AQI levels and the impact on public health.
Key Takeaways
- Jind is the most polluted city with an AQI of 421.
- Several cities in the NCR are experiencing 'very poor' air quality.
- Health experts warn about the risks of exposure to high pollution levels.
- Particulate matter PM2.5 is the leading pollutant in the region.
- Contrastingly, southern cities report better air quality.
New Delhi, Oct 21 (NationPress) Following the Diwali festivities that lit up the night sky with fireworks and vibrant smoke, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) reported a significant decline in air quality throughout northern India on Tuesday.
The latest Air Quality Index (AQI) report reveals that multiple cities in Haryana and the National Capital Region (NCR) are facing 'severe' and 'very poor' air quality levels.
Jind leads the national pollution rankings with an AQI of 421, succeeded by Dharuhera at 412, Narnaul at 390, and Rohtak at 376, all classified in the severe category, which can adversely affect even healthy individuals. Other notable cities with high pollution levels include Bahadurgarh (368), Sirsa (353), Charkhi Dadri (353), Gurugram (370), and the national capital, Delhi (351), all categorized as very poor.
Data indicates that particulate matter PM2.5 is the predominant pollutant in these areas, elevating air quality to hazardous levels.
Adjacent cities like Ghaziabad (324), Noida (320), Manesar (320), and Hapur (314) also reported very poor air quality, creating a toxic haze over the NCR.
Health professionals caution that exposure to such conditions may lead to respiratory issues, especially in children, the elderly, and those suffering from asthma or heart ailments.
Conversely, cities in the south, including Bengaluru (97), Chennai (142), and Hyderabad (116), reported satisfactory to moderate air quality, while coastal and northeastern regions such as Mysuru (41), Gangtok (34), and Shillong (17) enjoyed good conditions.
Earlier in the day, data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) confirmed that the overall AQI in Delhi-NCR remained in the 'very poor' category at 400, just after the Diwali celebrations.
While the overall AQI was 347, several areas recorded levels in the 'severe' category.
According to CPCB classifications, AQI levels are classified as follows: 0-50 is 'good', 51-100 is 'satisfactory', 101-200 is 'moderate', 201-300 is 'poor', 301-400 is 'very poor', and 401-500 is 'severe'.
Various localities in Delhi reported concerning AQI levels, including Narela (354), Najafgarh (334), Mundka (357), Mandir Marg (325), Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium (358), Lodhi Road (334), Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium (317), Jahangirpuri (404), ITO (345), Dilshad Garden (346), Dwarka Sector 8 (333), Mathura Road (341), Bawana (418), and Anand Vihar (352), according to data from the SAMEER app developed by the CPCB.
Point of View
It is crucial to emphasize the ongoing environmental crisis that impacts the health of millions. The alarming AQI levels in northern India post-Diwali reflect the urgent need for effective policy changes and public awareness to combat air pollution. This situation demands immediate attention and action to protect our communities.
NationPress
22/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current air quality status in NCR?
The air quality in NCR has been classified as 'very poor,' with cities like Jind and Dharuhera recording alarming AQI levels.
What are the health impacts of poor air quality?
Poor air quality can lead to respiratory illnesses, particularly in vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly.
What does AQI stand for?
AQI stands for Air Quality Index, a standard used to gauge air pollution levels.
Which pollutants are primarily affecting air quality?
Particulate matter, especially PM2.5, is the dominant pollutant impacting air quality in these regions.
How can we improve air quality?
Implementing stricter emissions regulations, promoting public transportation, and raising awareness about pollution can help improve air quality.
