Delhi's air quality registered a slight improvement on Tuesday morning, with the citywide Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 299 around 9 am by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). While this marks a shift from Monday's 'severe' levels, the national capital remains engulfed in hazardous air, firmly within the 'poor' category.
The deterioration of air quality is largely attributed to widespread firecracker bursting during the recent Diwali celebrations, which significantly added to an already compromised atmosphere. On Monday, the 24-hour average AQI had soared to 370, pushing several areas into the 'severe' classification (AQI above 400).
Persistent Pollution Hotspots
Despite the overall marginal relief, several monitoring stations continued to report alarmingly high pollution levels. Pusa and Chandni Chowk recorded AQI readings exceeding 380, closely followed by NSUT Jaffarpur at 379 and the Commonwealth Sports Complex at 377, according to CPCB data. These figures highlight localized pockets of intense pollution across the city.
Earlier, on Monday, locations such as ITO, Punjabi Bagh, Burari, Jahangirpuri, and North Campus had all surpassed the 400-mark, indicating 'severe' air quality. Burari Crossing, Chandni Chowk, and Ghazipur had even reached AQI levels of 441 and 418 respectively.
GRAP Stage III Restrictions Continue
In response to the ongoing hazardous conditions, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has maintained Stage III restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). These measures are designed to prevent further deterioration and include intensified pollution-control enforcement across the Delhi-NCR region.
Under Stage III, non-essential construction and demolition activities are restricted. Authorities have also enhanced efforts to control road dust through mechanical sweeping and water sprinkling. Furthermore, restrictions have been implemented on the movement of BS-3 petrol and BS-4 diesel vehicles within the capital.
Health Advisories and School Measures
With pollution levels remaining critically high, schools in Delhi and neighboring NCR cities have been directed to implement hybrid classes for younger students. This initiative aims to minimize children's exposure to the toxic air while ensuring educational continuity.
Residents are strongly advised to avoid outdoor exercise, wear masks when venturing outdoors, and keep windows closed, especially during peak pollution hours. Authorities have indicated that further stringent measures may be imposed if air quality conditions worsen in the coming days.