New Delhi: Delhi's air quality plunged into the 'severe' category on Friday, with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) crossing the 400 mark as thick smog blanketed the national capital, reducing visibility and raising fresh concerns over worsening pollution.

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The city's average AQI stood at 402-403, according to reports citing Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. Of the 58 monitoring stations across Delhi, 33 recorded 'severe' air quality, with several locations reporting readings above 450.

IIT Delhi recorded one of the highest pollution levels, with an AQI of 487, while Chandni Chowk and North Campus reported readings of 476 each. Pusa recorded 468 and Jaffarpur 461.

Other areas also reported dangerously high pollution levels. Mathura Road recorded an AQI of 455, while Burari Crossing and ITO registered 453 each. JNU reported 451 and Aya Nagar 433.

The severe readings indicate a sharp deterioration in air quality after a brief improvement earlier in the week. Delhi's average AQI had stood at 299 on November 10, before rising to 313 on November 11 and 350 on November 12.

According to CPCB's classification, an AQI between 401 and 500 falls in the 'severe' category. At these levels, air pollution can affect healthy people and seriously impact those with existing health conditions.
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NCR cities also record high pollution levels

Air quality in neighbouring National Capital Region (NCR) cities was relatively better but remained in the 'very poor' category. As of 5 am, Ghaziabad recorded an AQI of 377, followed by Noida at 369 and Gurugram at 349.

The deterioration comes amid worsening pollution levels since Diwali celebrations on November 8. Stubble burning in neighbouring states, along with unfavourable weather conditions, has contributed to the pollution, leaving little scope for immediate relief.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast that Delhi's AQI is likely to remain between the 'very poor' and 'severe' categories until November 16. Improved wind conditions could bring some relief thereafter.
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Construction curbs tightened in NCR

Meanwhile, authorities have stepped up pollution-control measures across the NCR. Gautam Buddh Nagar District Magistrate Medha Roopam has directed officials to strictly enforce the ban on construction and demolition activities under Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).

The directions were issued during a virtual review meeting to assess compliance with restrictions imposed after the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) invoked GRAP-III in Delhi-NCR.

Officials have been instructed to conduct regular inspections and take action against violators.