Delhi Chokes Under Thick Smog: AQI Hits 'Very Poor' Category, Govt Takes Action

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Delhi's residents woke up to a thick blanket of smog on Sunday morning, with the average Air Quality Index (AQI) hitting 303, categorizing the city's air quality as 'very poor'. Despite a slight improvement, several areas remained shrouded in toxic smog, with visibility significantly reduced in places like Anand Vihar and ITO. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), many regions of the National Capital fell into the 'very poor' category, with key stations like Ashok Vihar (322), Bawana (352), Burari (318), Chandani Chowk (307), and Dwarka (307) reporting poor air quality. The AQI categorization ranges from 'good' (0-50) to 'severe' (401-500), with 'very poor' falling between 301-400. The CPCB has divided the AQI into six categories, each reflecting the level of pollution and associated health risks. In response to the deteriorating air quality, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has released a statement highlighting the government's efforts to combat pollution. The statement cites various studies that attribute one in every seven deaths in Delhi to toxic air. The government has established the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to oversee air quality management in Delhi-NCR and adjoining areas. The Commission has issued 95 Statutory Directions and a Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to tackle pollution during peak winter months. Stricter emission norms have been implemented, and regular review meetings are conducted to monitor progress. The government continues to take measures to address the issue, with the aim of improving air quality and reducing health risks for Delhi's residents.