Hazardous Smog Engulfs New Delhi as Air Quality Deteriorates

Hazardous Smog Engulfs New Delhi as Air Quality Deteriorates
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Air quality in India’s capital deteriorated sharply this winter, with pollution levels reaching the hazardous category and prompting emergency restrictions and health warnings, Khaama Press reported. Authorities said the Air Quality Index exceeded 450 across wide areas of New Delhi and its suburbs, marking the worst readings recorded so far this season and far surpassing safe limits. An AQI above 400 is considered dangerous and poses severe health risks.

In response, city officials imposed emergency measures, including banning older diesel vehicles, suspending construction work, and tightening controls on industrial emissions. Monitoring stations showed consistently high pollution levels across the capital, indicating a widespread smog episode rather than isolated pollution hotspots.

Residents reported reduced visibility along with symptoms such as eye irritation and breathing difficulties. Health experts warned that the conditions are particularly harmful for children, the elderly, and people with respiratory or cardiovascular illnesses, advising limited outdoor exposure.

Delhi, a megacity of over 30 million people, experiences severe winter pollution each year due to vehicle emissions, construction dust, industrial activity, and smoke from crop burning in nearby states, underscoring the need for long-term air quality solutions.