Delhi air quality plunges to 'very poor' as pollution crisis deepens

Delhi's air quality has nosedived into the 'very poor' category, with the city recording an Air Quality Index of 301, according to official measurements. The hazardous readings extend beyond the national capital, with Gurugram registering an AQI of 289 and Noida at 243, indicating a widespread pollution crisis across the National Capital Region.

The deterioration in air quality has raised concerns about public health, particularly among vulnerable populations including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions. Residents have been advised to limit outdoor activities and use air purifiers indoors as the pollution levels remain dangerously elevated.

The Central Pollution Control Board has acknowledged gaps in air quality data collection and monitoring across various regions, pledging to address the inconsistencies to provide more accurate assessments of the pollution situation. The agency is working to strengthen its monitoring network to ensure comprehensive coverage and reliable real-time data for policymakers and the public.

Authorities have indicated that further action may be necessary if air quality continues to deteriorate. The pollution crisis underscores ongoing challenges in managing air quality in the region, particularly during the winter months when meteorological conditions trap pollutants closer to the ground.