Pollution situation in Delhi is serious, AQI crosses 350 in most areas

Delhi AQI Index: The level of air pollution in Delhi is constantly increasing, and its effect became even more severe on Saturday. The overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of the national capital was recorded at 360, which falls in the 'very poor' category. Delhiites may now face health problems, especially for children, the elderly and people suffering from respiratory problems. In many areas of the city, people are being advised to avoid morning walks and use masks while going out.

AQI level in Delhi areas

The pollution level in various areas of Delhi has reached a very dangerous level. Below is the AQI of various areas:

• Anand Vihar: 393 (very poor)
• Ashok Vihar: 382 (very poor)
• Alipur: 386 (very poor)
• Bawana: 409 (severe)
• Burari: 354 (very poor)
• Mathura Road: 333 (poor)
• Dwarka: 360 (very poor)
• IGI Airport: 345 (very poor)
• Jahangirpuri: 389 (very poor)
• ITO: 324 (poor)
• Lodhi Road: 310 (poor)
• Mundka: 376 (very poor)
• Mandir Marg: 340 (very poor)
• Okhla: 370 (very poor)
• Patparganj: 388 (very poor)
• Punjabi Bagh: 389 (very poor)
• Rohini: 401 (severe)
• Vivek Vihar: 383 (very poor)
• Wazirpur: 397 (severe)
• Najafgarh: 385 (very poor)
• Noida: 257 (poor)

These figures show that the AQI level in most areas of Delhi has reached the 'very poor' and 'severe' category. Staying out for a long time in such air quality can have an adverse effect on the health of citizens.

Main reasons for increasing pollution

There are many main reasons for the increase in pollution levels in Delhi. The main reasons are:

Burning of stubble: In the months of October-November, farmers in Haryana, Punjab and Uttar Pradesh burn the stubble left after harvesting the crop in the fields. The smoke arising from this stubble reaches Delhi and further increases the pollution level.

Smoke from vehicles: The number of vehicles in Delhi is very high, the smoke from which severely affects the air quality.

Dust generated from construction work: Construction work going on at various places in and around Delhi is also a major cause of pollution. The dust coming out of construction sites gets mixed in the air and pollutes the air further.

Weather conditions: Due to cold and stagnant air in the winter season, the pollutant particles in the air remain in the lower atmosphere for a long time, which increases pollution further.

Health advice for citizens

• In view of the serious level of air pollution, health experts have given some important suggestions to Delhiites:
• Use mask: Use N95 or other anti-pollution mask while going out of the house.
• Avoid morning walks: Pollution levels may be higher in the morning, so avoid morning walks.
• Use air purifying devices at home: Use air purifying devices to maintain air quality even indoors.
• Take special care of vulnerable individuals: Children, the elderly, and asthma patients need special attention. They are advised to stay indoors as much as possible.

Steps towards the solution

Some steps are being taken by the government to control pollution, such as ban on construction work, ban on polluting vehicles, and sprinkling of water. However, for a long-term solution, all citizens, government agencies, and private institutions will have to come together and make a solid action plan so that Delhi and surrounding areas can get a clean and healthy environment.