Noida is grappling with deteriorating air quality once more, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossing into the severe red category in several NCR hotspots. After a brief respite from strong winds, pollution levels are climbing back up, raising alarms across Delhi, Noida, Greater Noida, and Ghaziabad.
Latest readings paint a grim picture. In Greater Noida’s Knowledge Park-5, AQI soared to 331, firmly in the hazardous red zone that poses serious health risks. Nearby Knowledge Park-3 clocked 202, categorized as poor. Ghaziabad fares no better, with Loni at 312 and Sanjay Nagar at 301—both severe. Indirapuram and Vasundhara reported 273 and 271 respectively, falling into very poor territory.
Noida’s sectors are equally concerning. Sector-125 hit 278, Sector-1 262, and Sector-116 269, all very poor. Sector-62 managed 201, still poor. In Delhi, Anand Vihar reached 278, Ashok Vihar 263, Bawana 260, and Burari Crossing 251. Chandni Chowk stood at 239, Commonwealth Sports Complex at 231, and CRRI Mathura Road at 210. Relatively better spots include Cantonment at 177 and Aya Nagar at 197.
Meteorologists predict a warming trend ahead. On March 7, expect a low of 16°C and high of 32°C. Temperatures will climb to 33°C max on March 8-9 with lows at 17°C, peaking at 34°C from March 10-12. Clear skies and intense sunlight are forecast, but calmer winds could trap pollutants.
Experts warn that rising temperatures combined with sluggish winds allow particulate matter to accumulate, worsening AQI. Residents are urged to limit outdoor activities during peak pollution hours, wear masks, and protect vulnerable groups like children and seniors. Authorities may soon activate stricter pollution control measures if trends persist.