Northern India Faces Severe Air Pollution Crisis
Major cities in northern India, including Delhi, Mumbai, and parts of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, are reeling under a severe air quality crisis as pollution levels skyrocket, posing serious health risks.
Delhi’s Pollution Levels Hit ‘Severe-Plus’
Delhi recorded an average AQI of 492 at 7 AM on Tuesday, placing the city firmly in the ‘severe-plus’ category. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), areas such as Alipur, Anand Vihar, Bawana, Narela, Pusa, and Sonia Vihar reached the maximum AQI level of 500. Of the city’s 38 air quality monitoring stations, 21 reported AQI levels of 490 or higher.
Fog and High Humidity Worsen Conditions
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a ‘yellow’ alert for moderate to dense fog across Delhi-NCR, further reducing visibility. At Indira Gandhi International Airport, visibility dropped to just 600 meters on Tuesday morning. Meanwhile, 100% humidity in the region has amplified the discomfort and compounded the effects of pollution.
Schools Closed in Gurugram Amid Hazardous Air Quality
The Gurugram district administration has suspended all physical classes up to Grade 12 until November 23, 2024, or further notice. This decision follows directives from Haryana’s Director of Secondary Education as the region grapples with dangerously high pollution levels.
Lucknow Faces ‘Very Poor’ Air Quality
In Lucknow, the AQI stands at 305, placing the city in the ‘very poor’ category. The deteriorating air quality poses significant risks, making outdoor activities unsafe for residents.
Patna Among Most Polluted Cities
Patna recorded an AQI of 313 on Monday morning, placing it in the ‘very poor’ category. The alarming pollution levels pose significant health risks to its residents.
Pune and Mumbai Record ‘Moderate’ Air Quality
On Tuesday morning, Pune and Mumbai reported an AQI of 112, categorized as ‘moderate.’ While this level is generally acceptable, it may still pose minor health concerns for individuals unusually sensitive to air pollution.
Kolkata’s Air Quality Classified as ‘Moderate’
Kolkata recorded an AQI of 161, placing it in the ‘moderate’ category. While general conditions are manageable, prolonged exposure may impact sensitive individuals.
Bengaluru: A Rare Bright Spot
With an AQI of 100, Bengaluru falls in the ‘satisfactory’ category, indicating minimal health risks and relatively better air quality compared to other major cities.
Hyderabad’s Air Quality Also ‘Moderate’
Hyderabad reported an AQI of 146, categorized as ‘moderate.’ While the air quality is acceptable for most, vulnerable populations may experience some health effects.
Ahmedabad Leads with Cleanest Air Among Major Cities
Ahmedabad recorded an AQI of 62, placing it in the ‘satisfactory’ category. Amid widespread pollution concerns, the city offers a welcome respite with its relatively clean air.
