Delhi’s air turns toxic ahead of Diwali as AQI hits ‘severe’ levels in many areas

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The pollution level in the capital Delhi has once again reached dangerous levels. According to the data of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded in the 'severe' and 'poor' category in many areas of the city on Sunday morning. According to the CPCB, the AQI in Anand Vihar was recorded at 430, which falls in the 'severe' category. At the same time, the AQI in Akshardham area was 426. The AQI in Ashok Vihar was recorded at 306 and in Bawana at 309, which falls in the 'very poor' category. The AQI in Jahangirpuri was recorded at 318 and in Dwarka Sector-8 at 341.

Delhi's air is toxic ahead of Diwali, with AQI reaching 'severe' levels in many areas : AQI was recorded at 291 in Chandni Chowk, 288 at IGI Airport, 290 near Barapullah flyover and 284 near ITO, all of which fall in the 'poor' category. In view of the rising pollution levels, the administration has taken several steps. Mist sprinklers have been installed in many parts of the city to reduce dust and smog. Similar arrangements have been made in the India Gate area as well, but despite this, AQI was recorded at 269, which is still in the 'poor' category.

The continuously deteriorating air quality in the capital has once again raised public concern. Experts say that due to the drop in temperature and slower wind speed, pollution levels may increase further in the coming days. The AQI level is divided into six categories – good (0-50), satisfactory (51-100), moderately polluted (101-200), poor (201-300), very poor (301-400) and severe (401-500).