Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) entered the “Severe” category on Monday morning due to a dramatic increase in pollution. The AQI was 402 at 7 AM, a considerable decline from Sunday’s “Very Poor” rating. Much of the nation’s capital was covered in dense pollution, making it difficult to see and slowing traffic. Images from well-known sites like Akshardham and Kartavya Path showed cars moving carefully through a thick, poisonous haze. The worsening situation underscores how severe air pollution grips Delhi during the winter months, when stagnant weather conditions trap pollutants close to the ground.

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reports that multiple monitoring stations recorded AQI readings well over the severe threshold, indicating that pollution levels were dangerously high throughout the day. Advisories and alarms have been issued throughout the city due to the scenario, which has alarmed officials and health professionals alike.

Delhi AQI Turns Severe: Station-Wise Status

The majority of the city’s areas reported poor air quality, and CPCB data showed significant differences across regions. The most contaminated area was Anand Vihar, followed by several densely populated areas in Delhi’s north and west.

Medical experts have cautioned that prolonged exposure to such hazardous air may have detrimental effects on health, with AQI levels exceeding 400 at many locations. Particularly at risk are children, the elderly, expectant mothers, and anyone with heart conditions, asthma, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Symptoms such as breathlessness, eye irritation, headaches, and aggravated respiratory conditions are likely to intensify as severe air pollution grips Delhi for extended periods.

Also Read: The Hidden Ways Climate Change Is Affecting Christmas Celebrations

Fog Alert and Weather Conditions Worsen Situation

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange advisory for Delhi due to extremely dense fog, worsening the pollution problem. Road and rail traffic was hampered in several places by the severe decline in visibility that occurred late on Sunday night and persisted into the early morning.

The following are essential weather indicators for the day:

• Maximum temperature: Around 22°C
• Minimum temperature: Almost 7°C is anticipated.
• Fog conditions: Dense to extremely dense fog is likely in the morning and at night.

According to meteorologists, low wind speeds, excessive moisture, and freezing temperatures are making it harder for pollutants to disperse, worsening air quality. Authorities have advised locals to limit outdoor activities, use public transportation when feasible, and refrain from unnecessary early-morning trips. As the mix of cold, fog, and toxic air continues to pose significant challenges, schools and offices have been encouraged to remain vigilant. As severe air pollution grips Delhi, both environmental and public health agencies remain on high alert, closely monitoring conditions across the capital.

Also Read: Artificial Reefs Offer New Hope For Damaged Marine Ecosystems