NEW DELHI, Dec 29 — Delhi’s air quality deteriorated sharply on Monday, with the city’s air quality index entering the “severe” category amid dense fog and cold weather conditions.
According to official data, the overall AQI stood at 402 at 8 a.m. Anand Vihar recorded one of the worst readings at 455, followed by Wazirpur at 443 and Rohini at 442. High pollution levels were also recorded in Bawana (411), Punjabi Bagh (426) and Patparganj (431).
An official from the Central Pollution Control Board said weather conditions were contributing to the spike in pollution. “Low wind speed and fog prevent the dispersion of pollutants, causing concentrations to build up near the surface,” the official said.
Health experts have warned that prolonged exposure to severe air quality can aggravate respiratory and cardiovascular conditions, particularly among children, the elderly and people with pre-existing illnesses.
Authorities have urged residents to limit outdoor activities during peak pollution hours and follow health advisories as the city continues to grapple with worsening winter pollution.
