New Delhi, The air quality index (AQI) in Delhi reached an alarming 447, falling under the ‘severe’ category, as reported by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Key areas like Anand Vihar, Ashok Vihar, and Dwarka-Sector 8 recorded extremely high AQI levels. In response to the worsening situation, non-essential construction and certain vehicle activities have been banned in Delhi-NCR.
The Central government has taken decisive steps to address the escalating air pollution crisis. A ban on non-essential construction work and the operation of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers in Delhi-NCR has been implemented. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) cited unfavorable meteorological conditions, including fog and haze, as major contributors to the sudden spike in AQI.
Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport experienced disruptions in flight operations due to thick fog, causing delays for both international and domestic flights. A total of 11 international flights and 5 domestic flights were affected.
The city recorded a minimum temperature of 9.6 degrees Celsius, two notches above the season’s average, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Moderate fog is predicted during the day, with the maximum temperature expected to settle around 23 degrees Celsius.
With the air quality reaching severe levels, coupled with adverse weather conditions, Delhi is grappling with a challenging environmental situation. The government’s proactive measures aim to mitigate the impact and improve the overall air quality in the region. Stay tuned for further updates on this critical issue.
