Delhi’s Air Quality Worsens, Residents Gasp for Relief as AQI Touches 355 in ‘Very Poor’ Category

New Delhi: The national capital woke up to another smog-filled morning on Saturday as air pollution levels remained alarmingly high. According to data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s overall Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 355 at 8 a.m., placing it firmly in the ‘very poor’ category for the second consecutive day.

Prominent areas in the city recorded similarly concerning figures — India Gate reported an AQI of 322, Palam 320, and Dhaula Kuan 269. Several other monitoring stations, including Anand Vihar (332), Bawana (366), and Chandni Chowk (354), also registered air quality levels that are considered hazardous for prolonged exposure.

Residents across the city continue to struggle with deteriorating air conditions. Local resident Karan Sharma expressed frustration over the government’s response, saying, “The pollution is very high. We face difficulties in breathing. No action is being taken by the concerned departments. The government should pay attention to the issue.”

The situation has worsened steadily over the past few days. On Friday, Delhi’s overall AQI was recorded at 312, while on Thursday, it stood at 271, marking a sharp increase in pollution levels within just 48 hours.

Experts attribute the worsening air quality to a combination of stubble burning in neighbouring states, vehicular emissions, and weather conditions that trap pollutants close to the ground. Despite the implementation of Stage 2 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) — which includes restrictions on construction, industrial activity, and vehicular movement — pollution levels have continued to climb.