New Delhi, November 11: Delhi woke up to choking smog and hazardous air on Monday as the Air Quality Index (AQI) soared to 425, placing the national capital in the ‘severe’ category for the second consecutive day.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has directed the enforcement of GRAP Stage III measures across Delhi-NCR to curb worsening pollution levels. These curbs include:
Immediate ban on construction and demolition activities, except for essential projects like hospitals, railways, and metro lines.
Restrictions on entry of non-essential diesel trucks and heavy vehicles into Delhi.
Closure or hybrid learning mode for schools in severely affected zones.
Intensified mechanized road cleaning and anti-smog water sprinkling operations across key corridors.
Authorities reported that Bawana, Rohini, and Mundka were the worst-affected areas, with AQI levels exceeding 450, primarily due to stagnant winds and crop-residue burning in adjoining states.
An official from the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) said the city’s PM2.5 concentration has reached nearly seven times the safe limit, warning of heightened respiratory risks for vulnerable groups.
“We urge citizens to minimize outdoor activity and use masks. Hospitals have already reported a spike in pollution-related cases,” the official added.
Meanwhile, the Delhi government has urged residents to carpool, use public transport, and avoid generators as part of emergency compliance under GRAP Stage III.
Meteorologists expect marginal relief later this week if winds from the northwest strengthen, helping disperse pollutants trapped over the NCR.
