Delhi’s AQI Soars to 264; Nearby Areas Remain In ‘Very Poor’ Category

The Air Quality Index (AQI) in the national capital soared to the ‘very poor’ category posing significant risks to residents. At 6:00 am today, the city reported an AQI of 264 (24-hour average), 90 points below the previous day’s figure. AQI in areas including Anand Vihar and Akshardham Temple soared to 357.

On account of calm winds that limited the dispersion of pollutants, the AQI in Delhi jumped to 355 on Sunday from 255 on Saturday. While several areas in the city fell into the ‘very poor’ category, neighbourhoods including Bawana, Burari, and Jahangirpuri reported ‘severe’ pollution levels.

A toxic foam was also witnessed on the Yamuna River at Kalindi Kunj.

Apart from the city regions, pollution also exacerbated in nearby regions including Greater Noida, Ghaziabad, and Noida reporting ‘very poor’ air quality. Meanwhile, Faridabad and Gurugram remained in the ‘poor’ range.

Notably, AQI between 0-50 is categorised as ‘good’ while anywhere between 401-500 is regarded as ‘severe’. The Air Quality Early Warning System has warned that pollution levels can further decline and may potentially reach a hazardous AQI of 400 by October 31, buoyed by adverse weather conditions.