Delhi-NCR Under Pollution Siege as Dense Fog Worsens Air Quality
Delhi-NCR Chokes Under Severe Pollution and Dense Fog, AQI Crosses 490; GRAP-IV Restrictions Imposed: Residents of Delhi-NCR woke up to yet another grim morning on Sunday as severe air pollution combined with dense fog left the region gasping for breath. According to the latest data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Air Quality Index (AQI) in several parts of the national capital crossed 490 by 6 a.m., placing Delhi firmly in the ‘severe’ category.
Experts noted that this is the fourth time this year that Delhi’s air quality has slipped into the severe zone, a level considered extremely hazardous to human health, particularly for children, the elderly, and people with respiratory or heart conditions.
Weather Behind the Pollution Spike
Meteorological conditions are being blamed for the sudden deterioration in air quality. A western disturbance active since Friday has led to a sharp drop in wind speed, preventing the dispersion of pollutants. As a result, harmful particulate matter has remained trapped in the lower atmosphere, causing pollution levels to spike rapidly since Saturday.
The capital has once again been enveloped in a thick layer of toxic smog, severely affecting daily life.
Dense Fog Reduces Visibility
Adding to the crisis, Delhi experienced the densest fog of the season so far. Visibility dropped drastically across the city, with landmarks like the Akshardham Temple barely visible. In surrounding areas, visibility reportedly fell below 50 meters, making road travel extremely risky.
Experts warned that dense fog could further worsen pollution levels in the coming days by preventing sunlight and air circulation, prolonging the smoggy conditions.
GRAP-IV Implemented, Construction Banned
In response to the alarming situation, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) enforced Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) with immediate effect. Under GRAP-IV, all non-essential construction and demolition activities have been completely banned.
Activities such as earthwork, piling, welding, painting, plastering, and tile or flooring work have been halted across Delhi-NCR.
Additional Restrictions to Control Pollution
The authorities have also imposed several other strict measures, including:
- Closure of ready-mix concrete (RMC) plants
- Ban on stone crushers, brick kilns, and mining activities
- Restrictions on the transportation of construction materials like cement, sand, and fly ash on unpaved roads
These steps aim to reduce dust and particulate matter emissions in the region.
Noida Air Turns Hazardous
The situation in neighboring Noida was even more alarming, with the AQI soaring to 772, placing it in the ‘hazardous’ category. Health experts have advised residents to avoid outdoor activities and use protective masks if stepping outside.
As pollution and fog continue to grip Delhi-NCR, authorities have urged people to remain cautious, limit outdoor exposure, and follow advisories until weather conditions improve.
ALSO READ: Why Hindus throw money into the river
