Delhi’s Air Quality Hits ‘Very Poor’ Levels Amid Growing Concerns

New Delhi — Delhi’s air quality took a significant downturn on Sunday, October 27, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) soaring to 352, categorizing it as “very poor,” according to reports from SAFAR. This marks a sharp increase from Saturday’s AQI of 255. Certain areas, such as Anand Vihar, faced even more alarming conditions, recording a critical AQI of 405, classified as “severe.” Other notable readings included 261 at Akshardham and 324 at Indira Gandhi International Airport. Residents expressed feelings of suffocation as thick smog enveloped the city.

Locals voiced their frustrations regarding the health implications of the worsening air quality. A cyclist lamented that everyday precautions, like wearing a mask, felt futile against the dense pollution. He called for more substantial government measures, arguing that current initiatives—such as construction bans and odd-even vehicle rules—are insufficient. “We need efforts that actually encourage public transport and carpooling,” he stated.

In a bid to tackle rising pollution levels, the Delhi government has extended its ban on firecrackers until January 1. Meanwhile, political tensions surrounding pollution management have escalated. BJP leader Shazia Ilmi criticized the Delhi administration for its handling of pollution, referencing toxic foam found in the Yamuna River and the recent hospitalization of BJP leader Virendra Sachdeva after he fell ill following a dip in the river.

Ilmi questioned the effectiveness of government funds allocated for pollution control, saying, “The public cannot breathe, and toxic foam floats on the Yamuna.”

Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai countered Ilmi’s accusations, asserting that the BJP has contributed to the pollution crisis and lacks cooperation in pollution control efforts. As the festival season approaches, residents of Delhi are increasingly facing health risks due to the persistently high pollution levels.