Delhi AQI Plummets to ‘Severe’ 410 as Dense Fog and Smog Grip the Capital

The air quality in Delhi-NCR hit a dangerous ‘severe’ category on Saturday, December 20. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recorded an AQI of 410. Thick toxic smog severely reduced visibility and disrupted daily life across the region.

This severe spike marks a significant worsening from previous days. Flight operations at the airport were impacted due to the low visibility. Authorities are urging residents to take necessary precautions.

Widespread ‘Severe’ and ‘Very Poor’ Readings Across Monitoring Stations

Data from the CPCB’s SAMEER app shows a grim picture. Eleven out of 40 monitoring stations reported AQI levels in the ‘severe’ range. An additional 29 stations recorded ‘very poor’ air quality.

Anand Vihar recorded the highest AQI at 430. Other critical areas included ITO at 421 and Akshardham at 423. The 24-hour average AQI remained high at 374, according to official data.

Transport and Regional Factors Drive Dangerous Pollution Levels

Analysis points to clear major contributors. Data from the Decision Support System for Air Quality Management was cited by ANI. It identifies transport as the largest single source of Delhi’s pollution, accounting for 15.9%.

Residential activities contributed 7.9%. Nearby NCR districts also played a significant role. Jhajjar was the top external contributor at 16.6%, followed by Rohtak and Bhiwani.

Health Risks Rise as ‘Severe’ Conditions Expected to Persist

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had forecast dense morning fog. The maximum temperature was 22.2°C, with a low of 9°C. The combination of cold air and pollutants creates a lingering health hazard.

The Air Quality Early Warning System predicts conditions will remain ‘severe’ on Sunday and Monday. This extended exposure raises serious public health concerns, especially for vulnerable groups.

The national capital faces a prolonged period of hazardous air. The Delhi AQI crisis underscores the urgent need for sustained mitigation efforts as the region remains shrouded in toxic smog.

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What does an AQI of 410 mean for health?

An AQI above 400 is categorized as ‘Severe’. It affects healthy people and seriously impacts those with existing diseases. All residents should avoid outdoor activities and exertion.

Which area in Delhi had the worst air quality?

According to CPCB data reported by ANI, Anand Vihar recorded the highest AQI at 430. Vivek Vihar also reported a severe reading of 434 earlier in the day.

When is the air quality expected to improve?

The Air Quality Early Warning System forecasts air quality to remain in the ‘severe’ category on Sunday and Monday. Improvement is contingent on changes in weather and pollution sources.

What is the biggest source of Delhi’s pollution right now?

Official data indicates transport remains the largest contributor at 15.9%. Residential sources and emissions from nearby NCR districts like Jhajjar are also significant factors.

How has the dense fog affected daily life?

The thick fog layer drastically reduced visibility across the city. This led to disruptions in flight operations and made commuting hazardous for residents.