New Delhi: A dense layer of smog shrouded Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, and other parts of the National Capital Region (NCR) on Wednesday, causing a sharp decline in visibility and raising health concerns. Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) revealed that the air quality index (AQI) remained in the “very poor” category, with Anand Vihar in Delhi recording an alarming AQI of 393 at 5 am. According to Swiss firm IQAirs live ratings, Delhis AQI skyrocketed to a hazardous 1133, with PM2.5 as the dominant pollutant, intensifying public health warnings.Visibility Plummets Amid Rising PollutionThe combination of smog, shallow fog, and mist significantly impacted visibility during the morning hours, with experts warning that the conditions may persist into the evening and night. Residents, particularly those with respiratory conditions, are urged to take precautions as the hazardous air quality poses severe health risks. Since October 30, the AQI in Delhi has consistently remained in the “very poor” category, starting at 307, highlighting the persistent pollution crisis.Stubble Burning Aggravates Air Quality in Northern StatesFarm fires in Punjab and Haryana are a major contributor to the worsening air quality in Delhi and neighboring areas. On Tuesday, Punjab reported 83 new stubble-burning incidents, bringing the total count to 7,112. While Chandigarh recorded an AQI of 349 (“very poor”), other cities in Punjab and Haryana, including Mandi Gobindgarh (269), Kaithal (291), and Gurugram (205), reported “poor” air quality.Jagdeep Dhankhar Abandons Event Due to Poor VisibilityVice President Jagdeep Dhankhar was forced to cancel his attendance at an international conference in Ludhiana on Tuesday after his plane failed to land at Halwara airport due to poor visibility. Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria and Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann attended the event, which focused on agrifood systems and climate change.Dhankhars aircraft was diverted to Amritsar, where he stayed briefly before proceeding to Madhya Pradesh for another engagement. The grim pollution levels in Delhi-NCR and neighboring states underscore the need for immediate and sustainable measures to combat air pollution, especially during the stubble-burning season.
