According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) hit concerning highs, reaching a 24-hour average of 488 on Tuesday after peaking at 491 on Monday. Readings exceeding 401 on the AQI scale are classified as “severe,” which poses major health hazards, especially to vulnerable groups. The government responded by restricting the flow of vehicles, stopping development, and switching to online instruction for schools. The crisis underscores how toxic smog chokes Northern India, disrupting daily life and endangering public health.

The highest possible AQI reading of 500 was reported by at least five monitoring stations in Delhi. Meanwhile, Delhi’s “hazardous” air quality measurement of 489 placed it as the most polluted city in the world by Swiss-based IQAir.

Widespread Smog and Reduced Visibility

A common wintertime issue is smog, which has engulfed northern India, including Delhi and UP. In Haryana and Punjab, this condition is made worse by chilly air that traps pollutants, including smoke, emissions, and dust from unlawful stubble burning.

In areas like Agra, home to the Taj Mahal, thick smog has significantly reduced visibility and enveloped the monument in a shroud of pollution. According to India’s meteorological service, the fog layer moving towards Uttar Pradesh has improved visibility in Delhi.

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Economic and Health Impacts

Lives and livelihoods have been disturbed by the extreme pollution. Due to strict anti-pollution efforts, more than 3.4 million MSMEs across Delhi, Punjab, and Haryana have faced production slowdowns due to strict anti-pollution measures. According to experts, there are serious health repercussions for the general public, with high AQI levels endangering even healthy people and negatively impacting those with pre-existing diseases.

While stubble burning and emissions are major contributors, vehicular and industrial pollution also play significant roles. This underscores the need for a multi-faceted approach to combat seasonal pollution. As toxic smog chokes Northern India, the ongoing crisis demands coordinated actions to address the worsening pollution, which has left the region in a state of environmental and economic distress.

Also Read: What Is Photochemical Smog?