Air quality in the national capital has taken a severe downturn slipping into the dreaded Very Poor category as the Air Quality Index (AQI) surged past the 300 mark. The sudden rise in pollution is driven by dropping winter temperatures slow wind speeds vehicle emissions and stubble burning in neighbouring states. Areas like Anand Vihar Jahangirpuri and Rohini are among the worst affected with fine particulate matter (PM2.5) choking the air.
Health experts urge residents especially children and the elderly to avoid morning outdoor walks and wear N95 masks. Many citizens report eye burning dry throat and breathing trouble under the thick smog. In response government authorities have launched Stage II anti pollution measures under GRAP guidelines across the Delhi NCR region. Strict steps include heavy water spraying increased parking fees to curb car use extra electric buses and a ban on diesel generators to control the crisis.
