Delhi Pollution: Delhi’s air quality emergency reached critical levels Tuesday morning as the Air Quality Index (AQI) surged to near-maximum levels, prompting widespread shutdowns and urgent judicial intervention.
Delhi AQI reaches near-maximum levels
According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), Delhi’s overall AQI hit 494 at 6 am, pushing deep into the ‘severe plus’ category. Most of the capital’s 35 monitoring stations recorded AQI readings of 500, with NSIT Dwarka registering the lowest at 480.
Here’s what IMD report says:
The toxic smog, compounded by an India Meteorological Department (IMD) ‘orange’ alert for dense fog, has severely disrupted transportation networks. At least 22 trains faced delays and nine were cancelled, while airlines issued travel advisories warning of potential disruptions.
“Foggy weather in Delhi, Amritsar, and Chandigarh is affecting travel conditions, including slow-moving traffic and possible changes to flight operations,” IndiGo Airlines warned in a late-night advisory.
Delhi implements GRAP 4 restrictions
The Delhi government has implemented Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), the highest level of anti-pollution measures. Key restrictions include:
– Ban on Delhi-registered BS-IV diesel medium and heavy goods vehicles
– Prohibition of non-essential trucks and commercial vehicles from entering the capital
– 50% work-from-home mandate for offices
– Suspension of in-person schooling
Schools of Delhi-NCR go online
The education sector has seen widespread shutdowns across the National Capital Region (NCR). Delhi Chief Minister Atishi announced the suspension of all physical classes through Grade 12, while major institutions including Delhi University and Jawaharlal Nehru University have shifted to online learning until November 22.
Supreme Court increases curb amid Delhi Pollution
The Supreme Court has taken a stern stance on the crisis. A bench comprising Justices Abhay S Oka and Augustine George Masih ordered strict implementation of GRAP 4 measures, questioning the delayed response to the deteriorating air quality.
The top court mandated that these measures must continue even if AQI levels drop below 450, requiring judicial permission for any relaxation.
NCR covered in smog
Neighbouring cities have also implemented emergency measures. Gurugram suspended classes until November 23, while Ghaziabad and Gautam Buddh Nagar shifted to online education as AQI levels reached 450.
The crisis highlights the ongoing challenge of managing air quality in one of the world’s most polluted capital cities, particularly during the winter, when various factors combine to create hazardous breathing conditions for millions of residents.
