New Delhi: Delhi’s air quality remains in the “very poor” category for the sixth consecutive day, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 332 at 7:00 am. on Friday. In some areas, the AQI has crossed the ‘severe’ threshold of 400, indicating alarming pollution levels that are harmful to health.

The pollution levels are not limited to Delhi. Cities in the National Capital Region (NCR) are also experiencing poor air quality. Greater Noida recorded an AQI of 272, Ghaziabad at 258, Noida at 249, Gurugram at 258, and Faridabad at 166. These figures reflect unhealthy air quality, putting millions at risk.

Understanding AQI categories

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) defines AQI categories as follows:

  • 0-50: Good
  • 51-100: Satisfactory
  • 101-200: Moderate
  • 201-300: Poor
  • 301-400: Very Poor
  • 401-450: Severe
  • Above 450: Severe Plus

With an AQI of 332, Delhi is experiencing “very poor” air quality, posing serious health risks. In addition to the pollution, Delhi experienced its coldest night of the season on Thursday, with temperatures dropping to 10.1 degrees Celsius, as per the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The cold weather can trap pollutants close to the ground, worsening air quality.

Supreme Court takes action on pollution levels

To combat the severe pollution, the Supreme Court has directed that all Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)-IV measures, except those related to schools, will remain in place until the next hearing on December 2. The court emphasized the importance of strict enforcement of pollution control measures and warned of action against officials failing to implement these guidelines.

The court has allowed physical classes to continue but has refused to ease restrictions under GRAP-3 and GRAP-2 until AQI levels consistently improve. Several measures, including a ban on non-essential trucks, have been implemented to reduce pollution. Only trucks carrying essential goods or those running on cleaner fuels such as LNG, CNG, BS-VI diesel, or electricity are allowed entry.

Agency