Delhi Pollution: Pollution wreaks havoc amidst biting cold, air quality in 'severe' category, AQI crosses 450 in several areas.

Falling temperatures and adverse weather conditions have turned Delhi into a gas chamber. Air quality remained in the severe category on Monday morning. The day began with a thick layer of smog and fog, resulting in extremely low visibility in many areas. The severe pollution is causing difficulties for people with respiratory problems, and many are experiencing eye irritation. People were also seen wearing masks on the streets. According to data released by the Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi was recorded at 418 on Monday morning, which falls in the 'severe' category.

According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI was recorded at 395 in Alipur, 462 in Anand Vihar, 473 in Ashok Vihar, 340 in Aya Nagar, 448 in Bawana, 460 in Burari, and 454 in Chandni Chowk.

Furthermore, the AQI was recorded at 467 in the DTU area, 427 in Dwarka Sector-8, 340 at IGI Airport T3, 431 at ITO, 382 on Lodhi Road, 467 in Mundka, 346 in Najafgarh, 437 in Narela, 434 in Punjabi Bagh, 439 in RK Puram, 471 in Rohini, 469 in Sonia Vihar, 472 in Vivek Vihar, and 472 in Wazirpur.

In addition, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) implemented the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)-4 restrictions in Delhi-NCR late Saturday night. All phases of GRAP are now in effect in the capital. Under these phases, a 5-point action plan will be strictly implemented to reduce pollution.

Why is Delhi's air quality deteriorating?

According to experts, the main reason for the persistently severe air quality is the prevailing weather pattern. In this situation, the drop in temperature has led to a significant increase in pollution levels, exacerbated by a Western Disturbance that prevents the trapped cold air from rising. Pollutants such as vehicle exhaust and construction dust accumulate in this cold air. Since the pollutants have no way to disperse upwards, they remain trapped close to the ground. Furthermore, when there is no rain and the wind is calm, this trapped pollution cannot dissipate, making the situation considerably worse.