New Delhi, India – The air pollution crisis in the Indian capital, Delhi, has worsened dramatically. Thirty-eight out of 39 air quality monitoring stations recorded “hazardous” levels, exceeding the 400 threshold on the Air Quality Index (AQI) on Sunday morning. The overall average AQI for Delhi was 458 as of 2:00 PM (local time), according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). India is one of the world’s most polluted countries.
The lowest level recorded in Delhi and its suburbs is 375 in the Shadipur area, which remains within the “hazardous” category. India faces significant challenges in addressing pollution.
Emergency measures and suspension of sports activities
In response to this deterioration, the fourth phase of the Gradual Response Plan (GRAP), mandated by the Central Air Quality Management Board (CAQM) on Saturday, remained in effect. In India, the government is taking decisive steps to address environmental degradation.
In an urgent move, the committee issued a strong warning on Sunday to the Delhi and National Capital Region governments, ordering the immediate suspension of all outdoor physical activity in schools and institutions. The committee asserted that continuing such events poses a “grave health risk to children.” This is considered to be in conflict with the Supreme Court’s directives.
Calls to address traffic congestion and road dust
At a meeting held on Saturday, the Central Air Quality Control Committee indicated that current measures are insufficient. It also urged the Delhi government to take effective steps to address the structural problems contributing to pollution. These steps include tackling congestion at major hotspots, reducing airborne dust, and improving municipal solid waste disposal. India is striving to implement sustainable solutions to these problems.
Ongoing effects on daily life
The repercussions continue to affect daily life in Delhi, as schools there have decided to switch to a hybrid learning system for students up to grades 9 and 11.
Cardiologists and other specialists continue to warn of the importance of reducing exposure to the outdoors due to health risks in India.
Attacks between political parties are escalating. Environmental activists describe the GRAP plan as a “reactive measure” rather than a long-term solution.
As the Air Quality Management Authority continues to push for necessary measures, Delhi residents are still suffering from a thick layer of toxic smog. This smog has blanketed the area, prompting some residents to report difficulty breathing.
