Air pollution in India, especially in the capital city of New Delhi, has reached dangerously high levels following Diwali celebrations. The air has become toxic, and the AQI in many areas has crossed 400 to 450, which is highly dangerous to breathe. Here’s what you need to know.
Delhi Wakes Up To Thick Smog As AQI Crosses 700
Residents in Delhi woke up to thick smog on Monday after a night of Diwali celebrations and non-stop bursting of crackers. According to India Today, Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 743 after touching a peak of 1,331 at 1:31 am. Last year, Delhi’s AQI stood at 393 on October 21, one day after Diwali.
Lucknow’s AQI stood at 493, Indore at 449 and Pune at 412. According to The Economic Times, Mumbai, Chennai, Ahmedabad and Dehradun recorded lower AQI levels in comparison, but the air quality still remained unhealthy.
Also Read: Air Purifier Sales Double Ahead Of Winter; Delhi-NCR Accounts For Bulk Of Demand
Capital Records The Highest AQI Among 10 Cities
According to The Economic Times, the capital city recorded the highest AQI among the 10 cities listed.
- Delhi: 743
- Lucknow: 493
- Indore: 449
- Pune: 412
- Noida: 373
- Rajkot: 358
- Chennai: 188
- Ahmedabad: 179
- Mumbai: 156
- Dehradun: 155
Along with firecrackers, unfavourable meteorological conditions, vehicular emissions and stubble burning in neighbouring states are likely to contribute to the poor air quality. It should be noted that the readings quoted are based on AQI.in’s real-time data and are separate from official AQI figures. According to India Today, the Commission for Air Quality Management had already brought Stage III restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) into force across Delhi-NCR on November 6.
To stay safe during air pollution, avoid stepping outdoors unless necessary and limit physical activities outside. Wear a well-fitted face mask (preferably N95) when stepping out and keep your windows closed during periods of high pollution. Eat a healthy diet with fruits and vegetables, and stay hydrated by drinking enough water throughout the day.
Also Read: Delhi’s Air Quality Slips To Very Poor With AQI At 348, Stubble Burning Could Make It Worse
How are you staying safe in this air pollution?
Cover Image Courtesy: @SattaSatyanash/X and Canva Pro/ Khanchit Khirisutchalual (Representative Image)
FAQs
How can you stay safe during air pollution in Delhi?
Avoid outdoor activities, wear a well-fitted N95 mask when stepping out and use an air purifier indoors if possible.
What should you eat during air pollution?
Eat a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, nuts and protein-rich foods. Drink enough water, too.
What is AQI?
AQI stands for Air Quality Index. It measures how polluted the air is outside.
