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New Delhi, Nov 10 (IANS) The national capital is once again battling dangerous air pollution as a thick blanket of smog blanketed Delhi and its surrounding NCR cities.
According to data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s average air quality index (AQI) stood at 372 at 7 am on Monday, a level classified as ‘severe’, which poses serious health risks to residents.
AQI levels were recorded between 300 and 400 in most parts of the city, indicating very poor to severe air quality conditions. The situation is no better in neighboring areas, with Faridabad at 312, Ghaziabad at 318, Greater Noida at 325, Gurugram at 328 and Noida at 310, all falling in the ‘very bad’ to ‘severe’ category.
Environmental experts have warned that prolonged exposure to such polluted air can cause respiratory diseases, eye irritation and worsen chronic lung and heart conditions. Many residents complained of difficulty breathing and irritation in the eyes and throat as smog blanketed the city throughout the day.
Meanwhile, the effects of premature winter are also being seen in Delhi-NCR. The minimum temperature has dropped to 11 degrees Celsius, 3.3 degrees below normal, while the day temperature hovers around 27-28 degrees Celsius. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted clear skies and cool winds at speeds of 15-20 km/hr, making mornings and evenings particularly cool.
Meteorologists blame the poor air quality on low wind speeds, falling temperatures and rising humidity, which trap pollutants closer to the surface. Continuous burning of stubble in neighboring states is also contributing to the toxic smog.
Despite repeated efforts by authorities to curb pollution through vehicle bans, construction bans and the use of anti-smog guns, the national capital continues to struggle for clean air. Health experts have advised citizens, especially children and the elderly, to avoid outdoor activities and wear N95 masks when going out.
As Delhi-NCR grapples with its annual air pollution crisis, residents are hoping for strong winds or rain to bring some respite from the suffocating smog.
–IANS
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