Delhi: The pollution levels of Delhi hit the headlines across the world, and the air quality in the national capital continues to be in the ‘very poor’ category, with the AQI touching at 355, giving no respite to the Delhiites. Thick early morning fog and mist choked the entire city. People have been experiencing the poor visibility, especially at the airport and in other regions of the city.
The data of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reveals that the pollution hotspots like Anand Vihar, Rohini, and Mundka have been passing through severe conditions, with AQI levels exceeding 400, placing them in the ‘severe’ category. AQI readings at 8:00 am included Dwarka at 367, the airport at 342, ITO at 348, and Rohini with surpassing others reading of 415.
It seems the residents of the city won’t get relief in the near future. As per the CPCB, Delhi’s ventilation index, which indicates the atmosphere’s ability to disperse pollutants, stands at 15,000 m²/s. For effective dispersion, the index should be above 6,000 m²/s with wind speeds over 10 km/h. The current situation is expected to stretch at least 12 to 15 days. After that, the condition may improve.
The health issues are increasing amid pollution. According to Dr. Arvind Kumar, a senior lung specialist at Medanta Hospital, exposure to AQI levels between 450 and 500 is equivalent to smoking 25-30 cigarettes daily, posing risks to all age groups, including unborn children. However, despite the health warnings, many people were seen without masks in metro stations and other public places. Experts suggest residents take all precautionary measures.
