Delhi pollution update: Capital chokes as AQI hits hazardous levels; Government deploys anti-smog guns

Delhi’s air quality took a dangerous plunge this Monday as pollution levels hit new highs. The city woke up to a blanket of toxic smog, and an AQI (Air Quality Index) of 317 — classified as “very poor.” If reports are to go by, in some areas, the numbers soared past 600, making the air almost unbreathable. Anand Vihar, one of the worst-affected regions, registered a hazardous AQI of 627, making it the highest in Delhi and the most extreme reading this season, according to data from the Aqicn website.

As air pollution grips the city, the PM2.5 levels have become a serious health hazard, measuring 59 times above the World Health Organization’s safe limit.



As per reports, AQI levels varied across the city on Monday morning, but the situation remained dire. Apart from Anand Vihar, regions like Alipur, Narela, and Bawana recorded AQIs between 368 and 388, indicating hazardous air. Punjabi Bagh was also hit hard, with an AQI of 319, while RK Puram recorded a “very poor” AQI of 268. According to the AQI scale, levels above 300 are considered “very poor,” and readings above 400 fall into the “severe” category, potentially leading to serious health risks for everyone, not just vulnerable populations.

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To tackle this worsening crisis, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai has announced an emergency response. The Delhi government is set to deploy 200 mobile anti-smog guns across the city, aiming to curb the dust particles that contribute significantly to the capital's air pollution. If reports are to go by, the anti-smog guns will operate in three shifts, each lasting eight hours, to ensure that all assembly constituencies are covered. The guns will spray fine mists of water across different areas, helping to settle airborne dust particles.

Despite the reduction in stubble burning from surrounding states — which on Saturday contributed to only 15 percent of Delhi’s pollution levels compared to over 35 percent on Friday — other factors continue to play a substantial role in the city's pollution. Traffic emissions, industrial activity, and construction dust remain major contributors.

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As the air quality dips further, medical professionals are urging residents to minimize outdoor activities and wear masks when stepping out. The government, meanwhile, remains focused on implementing more ground-level measures to ease the city’s choking atmosphere.