Delhi’s air quality continues to deteriorate for the fourth consecutive day, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 406 on Saturday morning, which classifies the air quality as ‘severe’. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reports that the thick layer of smog has affected various parts of the city, including prominent areas like AIIMS and Pragati Maidan, visible through drone footage.
The high AQI poses significant health risks, including breathing difficulties, eye irritation, and potential heart issues. Residents have expressed concerns about the impact on physical activities, with many reporting increased fatigue, throat pain, and coughing, especially when outdoors. One local resident, Prateek Jain, shared his struggle with running near India Gate, where the AQI was 414, stating that the pollution made it harder to run longer distances and required frequent breaks.
In response to the crisis, the Delhi government has enforced measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-III), which includes a ban on older vehicles (BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers) and increased road sweeping and water sprinkling. Despite these measures, the situation highlights the persistent air pollution crisis in the city, with GRAP-III being implemented later in the year than in 2023. The ongoing pollution has raised concerns about its long-term effects on public health and the environment.
