Thick smog blankets Delhi-NCR as air quality stays locked in very poor range

Delhi and its surrounding NCR cities woke up on Tuesday to a heavy layer of toxic smog that reduced visibility and made breathing difficult for people across the region. The Air Quality Index (AQI) touched 363 on average, placing it in the ‘very poor’ category. Despite the enforcement of strict rules under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage III, pollution levels showed almost no improvement compared to the previous day. The situation has raised serious concerns for residents, health experts, and authorities, as the city continues to fight severe air pollution every winter.

Several parts of the capital reported extremely high AQI numbers. Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) showed that Wazirpur recorded 400, Anand Vihar reached 401 under the ‘severe’ category, and Punjabi Bagh, RK Puram, Patparganj, and Bawana also reported highly polluted air. Areas like NSIT Dwarka, Chandni Chowk, and ITO remained in the ‘very poor’ zone as well. Visuals from well-known locations such as AIIMS and Safdarjung Hospital showed thick smog, making the surroundings appear dull and grey, with visibility dropping sharply during the morning hours.

The NCR region faced similar conditions. Noida touched an alarming AQI of 456, Greater Noida recorded 455, Ghaziabad 454, Faridabad 444, and Gurugram 404. These numbers fall under the ‘severe’ category, meaning the air has become hazardous, especially for sensitive groups such as children, elders, and people with lung or heart diseases. In some areas, the air quality was so poor that outdoor activities were discouraged completely.

To control the rising pollution, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) implemented GRAP Stage-III restrictions. Under these rules, both government and private offices must operate with only 50% staff on the premises. The remaining employees are required to work from home. However, essential services—including hospitals, fire departments, and public transport—have been exempted to ensure that urgent services continue without interruption.

Health experts have warned residents to take extra care during this time. According to them, exposure to the current AQI levels can lead to several health issues such as burning and watery eyes, itchy skin, constant coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and discomfort for people with asthma. Doctors have advised citizens, especially vulnerable groups, to wear masks, avoid outdoor exercise, keep windows closed, run air purifiers if possible, and stay hydrated.

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Air pollution rises sharply across the region

While local pollution sources such as vehicle emissions, construction dust, and industrial activities continue to contribute heavily to the smog, this year another unusual factor has also come under observation. The Hayli Gubbi volcano in Ethiopia, which had remained dormant for more than 12,000 years, erupted recently, releasing ash into the atmosphere. Reports suggest that ash clouds are slowly drifting toward South Asia. Although the exact effect of this volcanic ash on Delhi’s air quality is not yet confirmed, authorities are monitoring the situation closely, as such particles may worsen already polluted air.

The poor air conditions have also triggered public reactions. On Sunday, a group of people gathered at India Gate to protest against the rising pollution levels and demand stronger action from authorities. Delhi Police later dispersed the crowd and filed FIRs against 22 protesters for allegedly blocking police activity and using pepper spray during the removal process. The protest reflected the growing frustration among citizens who feel that high pollution levels have become a yearly crisis with no permanent solution in sight.

Weather conditions added to the challenges. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported a sharp dip in temperature, with the minimum touching 9°C. Foggy conditions in the early morning made the smog appear even thicker. IMD said that moderate fog would continue in Delhi and NCR till November 26, although daytime temperatures may rise to around 24°C. Cold air traps pollutants near the ground, making it difficult for them to disperse, which is why smog tends to worsen during winter.

Emergency measures introduced amid health concerns

The difference in pollution levels between Delhi and its neighbouring cities showed the wide spread of the crisis. Rohini recorded 416, Jahangirpuri 400, Noida 390, Ghaziabad 348, Gurugram 311 and Faridabad 222. Even the relatively lower numbers in Faridabad still fell under unhealthy categories. These figures highlight that the pollution problem is not limited to one area but affects the entire region simultaneously.

The concentration of PM2.5 reached 294 µg/m³ and PM10 was measured at 396 µg/m³. These numbers are far above the limits set by the World Health Organisation (WHO), which recommends PM2.5 levels not exceeding 15 µg/m³ and PM10 levels not exceeding 45 µg/m³. Such high particle concentrations can travel deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, increasing the risk of serious health problems such as respiratory infections, lung damage, and heart complications.

Authorities have urged citizens to avoid burning waste, limit vehicle use, and follow all GRAP guidelines. Schools are monitoring the situation and may take additional steps if conditions worsen. Meanwhile, environmental groups continue to push for long-term solutions such as cleaner public transport, stricter emission control, and better waste management.

As Delhi-NCR struggles under a thick blanket of smog, the hope remains that combined efforts from the government, citizens, and environmental agencies will help the region breathe cleaner air soon. For now, residents must stay cautious, follow health guidelines, and minimise exposure to the toxic atmosphere.