Delhi Air Quality Worsens to 'Very Poor'

Air pollution levels in Delhi worsened on Sunday, reaching a 'very poor' rating with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 352, according to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). This marks a sharp rise from Saturday's AQI of 255, which was categorized as 'poor'.

Several areas of the city experienced even higher pollution levels. Anand Vihar recorded a severe AQI of 405 at 7 AM, than the previous day's reading of 367. Other prominent locations, including the Akshardham Temple and the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, reported 'very poor' AQIs of 261 and 324. A thick layer of smog enveloped parts of the city, reducing visibility and exacerbating the air quality situation.

Residents are feeling the direct impact of the pollution. A local cyclist shared his experience, stating, "The air quality has made it difficult to breathe and reduced stamina. We cycle daily here, but the pollution levels over the last few days are causing us problems. We can't breathe properly and get tired faster." He added that protective measures like wearing bandanas are ineffective and suggested that the government promote public transport and carpooling as alternatives to private vehicles.

With Diwali approaching, the Delhi government has implemented a ban on firecrackers until January 1 in an attempt to mitigate pollution levels during the festive season.

Adding to the city's environmental woes, toxic foam has re-emerged in the Yamuna River near Kalindi Kunj. BJP leader Shazia Ilmi criticized the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government's handling of pollution in Delhi, highlighting health risks from toxic foam. Ilmi questioned the effectiveness of the Rs. 3,000 crore allocated for cleaning up the Yamuna, citing the recent hospitalization of BJP leader Virendra Sachdeva after taking a dip in the river.

As Delhi prepares for Diwali celebrations, the rising pollution levels pose a significant challenge for both residents and authorities.