According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 376 at 7 AM – firmly in the “Very Poor” category. However, several monitoring stations recorded terrifying numbers that pushed into the “Severe” zone (AQI 401–500).
Worst-hit areas this morning:
- Chandni Chowk: 431 ⚠️
- Jahangirpuri: 406
- Anand Vihar: 405
- Ashok Vihar: 403
- Punjabi Bagh, Rohini, Wazirpur, Bawana
– all hovering between 390–410 At these levels, the concentration of deadly PM2.5 and PM10 particles is so high that even healthy people are experiencing burning eyes, sore throats, and breathing difficulties. Doctors have issued urgent warnings for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory illnesses to stay indoors. What the AQI numbers mean: - 0–50: Good - 51–100: Satisfactory - 101–200: Moderate - 201–300: Poor - 301–400: Very Poor - 401–500: Severe (current situation in many areas)
Experts blame the deadly cocktail of dropping temperatures, near-zero wind speed, vehicle emissions, construction dust, and industrial pollution. Even though stubble burning has reduced this year, local sources continue to choke the city.
Stage-3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) remains in force, but ground reality shows little relief for Delhiites. Hospitals are already reporting a surge in respiratory emergency cases.
As millions step out wearing N95 masks and air purifiers run non-stop inside homes, one question echoes across the city:
When will Delhi breathe freely again?
Sajjadali Nayani✍️
