New Delhi — The national capital’s air crisis deepened on Thursday, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) dropping to “very poor” levels across most monitoring stations and no immediate respite expected this week.
Authorities have reimposed the odd-even vehicle rule and ordered school closures to curb emissions as smog blankets the city. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has also directed a halt to construction and waste-burning activities in Delhi-NCR until conditions improve.
In a related move, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) announced revised winter session guidelines, advising schools to shift classes online and reschedule examinations where possible. Meteorological officials warn that stagnant winds and high pollution accumulation could push AQI into the “severe” category by the weekend.
Residents continue to report breathing discomfort, eye irritation, and reduced visibility, while health experts urge mask usage and minimal outdoor exposure.
