AQI reached 460 in Delhi NCR; Sun set at 3 pm due to smog

Delhi AQI Index: The air of the national capital Delhi and the adjoining NCR (National Capital Region) is becoming poisonous these days. The already poor Air Quality Index (AQI) crossed the critical level on Sunday. The AQI level reached 460 in the afternoon, which falls in the extremely dangerous category for health. Due to this pollution, people are facing problems like difficulty in breathing and irritation in the eyes.

Due to severe air pollution

According to the report of the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), the minimum temperature on Sunday was recorded at 15.9 degrees Celsius, 1.8 degrees above normal. It was sunny in the morning, but by afternoon thick layers of smog covered the sun. Due to this sheet of smog, the amount of pollutants in the atmosphere increased to dangerous levels.

Meaning and effect of AQI

According to AQI (Air Quality Index):

• 0-50: Good
• 51-100: Satisfactory
• 101-200: Moderate
• 201-300: Poor
• 301-400: Very Poor
• 401-500: Severe

The AQI was 429 at 9 am on Sunday, which crossed 460 at 3 pm. This serious situation reflects the high amount of fine particles (PM2.5 and PM10) present in the air, which cause respiratory and heart-related problems.

Effect on health

In many areas of Delhi-NCR, especially Ghaziabad and Noida, people are complaining of difficulty in breathing and burning sensation in the eyes. Doctors have warned that in this situation, children, the elderly and people suffering from serious diseases should be especially cautious. Avoid going out and use indoor air purifiers.

Role of fog and temperature

The weather department has predicted fog on Sunday night and Monday morning. The maximum temperature is likely to be 30 degrees Celsius. Due to fog, pollution particles get trapped in the atmosphere, which further deteriorates the air quality.

School closure and preventive measures

In view of the situation, primary schools have been closed in some districts of Uttar Pradesh and Haryana. Also, experts have advised wearing masks, limiting outdoor activities and adopting measures to improve air quality at home.

Suggestions for the government and the public

Government: Implement measures like sprinkling water on roads, ban on construction work and limiting the use of vehicles.

Public: Use public transport instead of private vehicles, adopt car pooling and do not burn garbage.

The toxic air of Delhi and NCR is not only a threat to health, but it is also affecting the ecology and living standards of the region. Both the government and the citizens need to take immediate steps to control it.