Delhi-NCR shrouded in toxic smog, GRAP-4 restrictions implemented, AQI crosses 350 in many places

Delhi-NCR Shrouded In Toxic Smog:  Air pollution levels in Delhi-NCR have reached dangerous levels, blanketing the entire area in smog. The Commission for Air Quality Management has imposed restrictions on construction activities and truck entry under GRAP Stage-4. According to CPCB data, the AQI has been recorded above 350 in several areas, which is extremely dangerous for health. Flights at Delhi Airport are experiencing delays and cancellations due to fog, and the airport has issued an advisory regarding this.

Also Read: 'Close toll booths in Delhi...', Supreme Court suggests to MCD-NHAI on rising pollution According to data released by the CPCB at 7 AM, the AQI was recorded at 374 in Anand Vihar, 382 in Okhla Phase-2, 369 in Rohini, and 372 in Wazirpur. Visibility on the roads has been reduced due to the smog, causing significant difficulties for drivers and pedestrians.

Situation also worrying in Ghaziabad, Noida, and Gurugram

The situation in areas surrounding Delhi, such as Ghaziabad, Noida, and Gurugram, also remains worrying. In Ghaziabad, the AQI was recorded at 377 in Vasundhara and 248 in Indirapuram. In Noida, the AQI reached 398 in Sector 1, while it was recorded at 302 in Sector 62.  Meanwhile, in Gurugram, the AQI was recorded at 326 in Sector 51 and 285 in Vikas Sadan. These figures indicate that the AQI in several areas of Delhi has reached the 'severe' category, which is extremely dangerous for health. The smog is becoming denser due to cold winds and low visibility.

IGI Issues Advisory

Due to this pollution and fog, passengers at Delhi Airport are facing significant difficulties. Delhi Airport issued a passenger advisory at 7 AM, sharing a link for real-time updates. Several flights are delayed or cancelled due to the dense fog. Health experts have advised people to wear masks when going outside, and especially children, the elderly, and those with respiratory problems should stay indoors. Prolonged exposure to this toxic air can lead to eye irritation, respiratory problems, and cardiovascular issues.

Fog Alert in Uttarakhand

Meanwhile, the weather is also changing in Uttarakhand. The IMD in Dehradun has issued an orange alert for dense fog in Udham Singh Nagar, Haridwar, and hilly districts like Champawat, Pauri, and Nainital. Also Read:  Delhi-NCR shrouded in dense fog, visibility zero due to fog and smog; AQI reaches 493 at Akshardham The department says that the weather remains dry, with minimum temperatures in the plains around 10-11 degrees Celsius and around 6 degrees in the hills. In Dehradun, the days were warm (23 degrees) and the nights were slightly cool (10-11 degrees), making the weather pleasant.

Summary

Pollution levels are also very high in Noida and Ghaziabad, which are adjacent to Delhi. In Noida's Sector 1, the AQI has reached 398, which is very close to the severe category.