Delhi AQI Today: National capital's air quality plunges to 'very poor' category, AQI hits 307

The polluted waters of river Yamuna laden with foam can be seen in Delhi.

Delhi woke up to a thick layer of fog today as the air quality dropped into the 'very poor' category, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 307, according to SAFAR-India. The deteriorating air quality poses health risks to residents, particularly vulnerable groups such as the elderly and those with respiratory conditions.

The AQI scale categorises air quality into six levels: 0-50 is 'good,' 51-100 is 'satisfactory,' 101-200 is 'moderate,' 201-300 is 'poor,' 301-400 is 'very poor,' and 401-500 is 'severe.' According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), a 'poor' AQI can cause breathing discomfort, while 'very poor' levels increase the risk of respiratory illnesses.

The worsening pollution can be attributed to several factors, including stubble burning in neighbouring states. September saw a 19.8 percent rise in stubble-burning incidents in Haryana, although Punjab recorded a 28.7 percent decline.

In response to worsening air quality, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee has imposed a complete ban on the manufacturing, storage, sale, and use of all types of firecrackers in the national capital until January 1. This measure is part of efforts to curb pollution during the winter months, which typically see a spike in harmful particulate matter due to several factors, including stubble burning and unfavorable weather conditions.

Additionally, the Commission for Air Quality Management has activated Stage-I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). GRAP is a set of emergency measures aimed at reducing air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR), depending on the severity of pollution levels. These measures include restrictions on construction activities, traffic management, and limitations on industrial emissions.

Meanwhile, another environmental concern surfaced in Delhi as the Yamuna River was seen covered with a thick layer of white froth. The toxic foam, primarily consisting of high levels of ammonia and phosphates, presents significant health hazards, especially respiratory and skin-related issues, as noted by environmental experts. These chemicals often find their way into water bodies due to untreated industrial waste and agricultural runoff, causing the foamy pollution, which worsens during specific times of the year, such as festivals.

Environmental experts have warned that this mixture of pollutants in the air and water could aggravate respiratory and skin problems for residents, making it crucial to follow safety guidelines during these hazardous conditions.

(With inputs from agencies)