Today, several areas in Delhi, India, recorded air quality levels labeled as “severe,” leading residents to complain of a strong, acrid smell of burning waste metal even indoors. Many have reported discomfort in their noses and throats.
According to the data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s air quality was already poor on the 18th, and it worsened again this morning, with six areas receiving an “extremely poor” overall Air Quality Index (AQI) rating.
Residents have voiced their frustrations to the Hindustan Times, highlighting that the pollution has made it difficult to breathe and has led to symptoms like runny noses and coughing, as well as other related health issues.
One individual shared with ANI that the worsening air quality feels like something is lodged in their throat, causing significant breathing difficulties and eye inflammation. They also noted that air pollution is expected to escalate after Diwali, urging the government to take decisive action to mitigate the pollution levels. “Those who burn things in this polluted air should face fines, as those suffering from respiratory illnesses must be in great distress,” they asserted.
India’s air quality index is categorized into six levels: 0 to 50 is considered “good,” 51 to 100 is “satisfactory,” 101 to 200 is “moderate,” 201 to 300 is “poor,” 301 to 400 is “very poor,” and anything above 400 is classified as “severe.”
India Today reported that Delhi’s Environment Minister Gopal Rai stated that in the past few days, 13 areas in the city have recorded AQI levels in the “severe” category. To address the pollution crisis, local coordination committees have been established to collaborate on reducing air pollution.
With the weather getting cooler in Delhi after October, some homeless individuals are burning branches, discarded tires, and scrap metal for warmth. The festive season has also seen a surge in firecracker use and incense burning, exacerbating the pollution problem. Additionally, nearby farmers are burning rice stubble to prepare for the next planting season, and the smoke generated has drifted into Delhi with reduced rainfall, making it harder for airborne particles to dissipate.
Delhi’s local leaders have called on residents to refrain from setting off firecrackers and to carpool whenever possible to help lower pollution levels. They also emphasized that authorities are tasked with identifying the root causes of the deteriorating air quality.
