Delhi air quality deteriorates, drops to 'very poor' category ahead of Diwali

Delhi's air quality has worsened, with the AQI reaching "very poor" levels at 356, and some areas reporting "severe" pollution above 400.

In Short

• Some areas in Delhi report 'severe' Air Quality Index above 400
• Public Works Department sprays water to reduce dust levels
• Delhi Mayor announces action plan with anti-smog guns

Delhi's air quality has taken a turn for the worse, with the city recording a 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 356, placing it in the higher range of the "very poor" category. This marks a significant drop in air quality compared to the past two days, where the AQI had slightly improved thanks to strong winds that dispersed pollutants.

On Saturday at 4 pm, the city had recorded an AQI of 255, which falls under the "poor" category. However, the current readings reflect a steep escalation, with several areas in Delhi now reporting "severe" pollution levels (AQI above 400), indicating extremely hazardous air quality.

This morning, AQI readings across Delhi at various monitoring stations registered alarming levels with Alipur at 403, Anand Vihar at 406, Bawana at 404, Jahangirpuri at 414, Nehru Nagar at 408, Sonia Vihar at 401, and Vivek Vihar at 404.

In other notable areas, AQI readings remained significantly elevated with ITO reporting an AQI of 367, India Gate at 374 and DU North Campus reported an AQI of 370.

As pollution levels continue to rise, residents are advised to take precautions, especially vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions.

Drone footage showed toxic foam floating on the surface of the Yamuna River in Kalindi Kunj.

In an effort to combat rising air pollution, PWD vehicles are spraying water in parts of the national capital to reduce dust levels.

Delhi Mayor Shelly Oberoi on Saturday announced a comprehensive action plan to improve the air quality in the national capital. As part of this initiative, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has mobilised 372 surveillance teams, 1,295 officers, and a fleet of anti-smog guns to monitor and reduce pollution.