Pollution and dense fog wreak havoc in NCR, AQI crosses 450, slight rain may bring relief in the New Year

Noida (The Uttam Hindu): Residents of the National Capital Region (NCR) continued to face severe pollution and dense fog even on the last day of the year. On December 31, air quality across Delhi-NCR slipped into the severe category, offering no relief from hazardous conditions.

According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), and IMD monitoring stations, the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossed the 450 mark in several areas, placing air quality in the severe zone.

In Delhi, Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 452, while Ashok Vihar stood at 411, Chandni Chowk at 420, Punjabi Bagh at 430, Rohini at 426, Shadipur at 437, Vivek Vihar at 441, and Wazirpur at 436. Other locations such as RK Puram reported 412, Siri Fort 409, Sonia Vihar 382, Sri Aurobindo Marg 345, and the DTU area 375.

These figures indicate that almost all parts of the capital remained above the red zone and under severe pollution. Conditions in Noida and Ghaziabad were similarly alarming. Noida’s Sector-1 recorded an AQI of 438, Sector-116 at 420, Sector-125 at 391, and Sector-62 at 373.

In Ghaziabad, Vasundhara reported an AQI of 432, Indirapuram 378, Loni 327, and Sanjay Nagar 320. Throughout the month, AQI levels across NCR largely remained in the red zone, causing increased difficulties for patients with respiratory issues, the elderly, and children. Dense fog further added to public inconvenience.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported moderate to dense fog on the morning of December 31. The maximum temperature was around 23°C, while the minimum dropped to 8°C. Poor visibility disrupted road, rail, and air traffic in several areas.

However, some relief may arrive on January 1. IMD forecasts suggest cloudy skies with a possibility of light rainfall. Temperatures are expected to range between 11°C and 19°C. Weather experts believe that light rain could help reduce pollution levels slightly. Moderate fog is again expected on January 2.