Delhi Wakes Up to ‘Very Poor’ Air Quality; AQI Hits 376, Chandni Chowk Worst Affected

Delhi residents on Wednesday woke up to another day of deteriorating air quality, with the city’s air quality index (AQI) climbing close to the ‘severe’ mark. According to the Central Pollution Control Board’s (CPCB) Sameer app, the AQI stood at 376 around 7 am, slightly higher than Tuesday’s average of 372, placing it firmly in the ‘very poor’ category.

Most areas of the city were shrouded in a layer of smog, with Chandni Chowk recording the highest AQI at 431, categorised as ‘severe’ by the CPCB. Other hotspots included Jahangirpuri at 406 and the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium area at 405, highlighting the widespread impact of pollution across the capital.

Understanding AQI Levels

The AQI, ranging from 0 to 500, is divided into six categories to reflect pollution levels and associated health risks:

• Good (0–50): Minimal or no health impact

• Satisfactory (51–100): Acceptable air quality; slight discomfort for sensitive groups

• Moderate (101–200): Rising pollution; may trigger breathing issues for those with asthma, lung, or heart conditions

• Poor (201–300): Prolonged exposure can cause breathing discomfort to most people

• Very Poor (301–400): Respiratory risks even for healthy individuals with long-term exposure

• Severe (401–500): Dangerous for everyone, with serious health impacts

Short-Lived Relief Over the Weekend

Delhi’s pollution had eased briefly over the weekend, with AQI levels dropping to the ‘poor’ category thanks to strong northwesterly winds and clearer skies. Sunday, November 30, ended a 24-day streak of ‘very poor’ air, providing temporary relief to Delhi and nearby areas like Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram, and Faridabad.

However, the calm was short-lived as AQI levels climbed again on Monday and continued their upward trend, reflecting the persistent challenge of winter smog, vehicular emissions, and industrial pollution in the capital.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, with residents advised to limit outdoor activities and take precautions, especially those with pre-existing respiratory or cardiac conditions.