Delhi AQI hits 500 in several parts, yellow alert amid the dense fog.

Delhi AQI Hits 500: Yellow Alert Issued Amid Dense Fog

Written by: Supriya Kadu

Edited by: Pinky Deshmukh

Last Updated: November 19, 2024

Summary: Delhi air pollution takes a hit again. This morning, 21 of the 38 air quality monitoring sites recorded an AQI of 490 or higher.

This morning, Delhi's average air quality index (AQI) was 492. The Central Pollution Control Board reports that the AQI in Alipur, Anand Vihar, Bawana, Narela, Pusa, and Sonia Vihar reached the maximum level of 500.

For Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR), the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow advisory due to moderate-to-dense fog conditions. As of 7 am, there were 600 meters of visibility over the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport.

Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) and Delhi University have moved their sessions online due to the worsening conditions. Delhi Chief Minister Atishi said on Monday that all lessons up to Class 12 will no longer be held in person and that all coursework will now be done online.

The Supreme Court ruled a day earlier that restrictions imposed to address the issue under Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) would stand until further instructions.

“All states will immediately constitute teams for monitoring the implementation of actions that are required to be taken under Stage 4,” said the court.

To lessen the impact of pollution in their daily lives, experts advise Delhiites to cut back on outdoor activities, minimize exposure, wear N95 masks while they are outside, and reduce vehicle emissions.

Apart from holding legislators responsible, individuals should also implement better waste management methods in their homes to prevent garbage from burning and use electricity sensibly.