Noida, February 3: Residents of Delhi-NCR are grappling with severely deteriorated air quality after just a day’s respite. Multiple areas in Delhi, Noida, and Ghaziabad have seen their Air Quality Index (AQI) soar into the red zone, making breathing a challenge for many.
Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), and Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) reveals AQI levels exceeding 300 in several spots, categorizing them as ‘very poor’. In Delhi, Anand Vihar recorded 334, Chandni Chowk 323, Nehru Nagar 329, Okhla Phase-2 310, Patparganj 301, and R.K. Puram 300. Punjabi Bagh stood at 298, Rohini at 281, and Ashok Vihar at 287. Relatively better readings came from Aya Nagar at 149 and Pusa (IMD) at 187.
Ghaziabad’s situation is equally alarming, with Indirapuram at 332, Loni at 314, and Vasundhara at 318. In Noida, Sector-125 hit 304, Sector-1 307, Sector-116 294, and Sector-62 231.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts no major improvement in the coming days. Dense fog shrouded the region this morning, reducing visibility drastically. Today’s maximum temperature was 20°C, minimum 8°C. Moderate fog is expected on February 4 and 5, with highs of 21°C and lows of 9°C. Moderate morning fog will persist through February 6-8, with temperatures ranging from 22-23°C max and 9-10°C min.
No official warnings have been issued, but caution is advised during mornings and nights. Experts attribute the stagnation of pollutants to cold winds, fog, and low wind speeds, exacerbated by snowfall in hilly areas due to western disturbances. Delhi-NCR dwellers face ongoing chills and hazy mornings ahead.