Written By: Satata Karmakar | Updated : November 5, 2024 9:43 PM IST
Delhi NCR Pollution: Thick Layer of Smog Engulfs Capital, AQI Crosses 400 In Many Areas
Delhi NCR Current AQI: A thick layer of smog blanketed several parts of the national capital on Tuesday evening and the air quality in Delhi continued to hover in the 'very poor' category, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossing 400, as per the Central Pollution Control Board.
"The AQI was reported at 384 in the 'very poor' category. The most polluted place was Anand Vihar with AQI 457 followed by Jahangirpuri at 440 AQI both in the 'severe' categories. Calm winds prevail in Delhi, along with mist conditions," the weather department said.
According to the experts, an AQI between zero and 50 is considered good, 51 and 100 satisfactory, 101 and 200 moderate, 201 and 300 poor, 301 and 400 very poor, 401 and 450 severe and above 450 severe plus.
AQI in various parts of Delhi:
A mix of factors is driving the dangerously high AQI levels in Delhi NCR. Key contributors include vehicle emissions, industrial pollution, and the burning of crop waste in surrounding states. In the winter months, the weather conditions worsen the situation by trapping pollutants near the ground and preventing their dispersal, making the air quality decline rapidly, which poses serious health risks to people.
Breathing smog-filled air is equivalent to smoking 10 cigarettes an hour, says a study. As air quality sees a dip in Delhi-NCR regions, here are some experts-backed tips to keep your lungs and overall health under check.
"High exposure to air pollution can result in respiratory issues, heart diseases, and other serious health conditions. Those most at risk include children, the elderly, and anyone with pre-existing health problems. Health officials are advising residents to minimize outdoor activities and take steps to safeguard their health," says Dr Arpita Pal, Apollo Hospitals, Gurugram. She further stated that there are a few steps that need to be taken at the moment to stay safe, such as:
Also, you must adopt a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can strengthen the immune system against pollution effects.
