Delhi's air quality 'severe' for first time this season; thick smog continues to choke city
PTC News Desk: Delhi was once again covered in a deep blanket of pollution on Wednesday morning, with air quality dropping to "severe" or "hazardous" in some parts of the city. Real-time pollution monitors in New Delhi and South Delhi have detected frightening levels of particulate matter, with PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations 10 to 20 times higher than permissible limits.
While the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) classifies current air quality as 'very poor' based on 24-hour averages, this does not reflect the severity experienced by city residents in real-time. The average numbers remain less frightening, owing to the dramatically improved air quality on Tuesday. However, morning commuters and those who are exposed to outside air on Wednesday face immediate risks to their health due to extremely high levels of pollution.
The air quality index was about 316 on Tuesday evening but had dropped to 370 by Wednesday morning. Due to the dense fog early Wednesday morning, several locations in the capital region had an AQI of 300 or higher and poor visibility.
Experts warn that the disparity between real-time data and 24-hour averages requires citizens to take proactive measures to safeguard themselves. Residents are advised to wear masks, use air purifiers, and minimise their outdoor activities due to the hazardous circumstances.
- PTC NEWS
