Air Quality Hits Hazardous Levels
Delhi-NCR is facing a major air quality crisis, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) rising above 450 in several parts of the region. The city is buried under a thick, toxic smog, severely limiting visibility and raising serious health concerns for residents.
Emergency Pollution Controls Activated
To tackle the dangerous pollution, authorities have triggered Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This imposes emergency measures, including restrictions on construction activities and certain types of vehicular movement. The decision aims to quickly reduce pollutant levels and protect public health.
Health Consequences for Citizens
Medical experts warn the public that the current pollution levels pose a high risk to vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those suffering from respiratory illnesses. The smog can worsen breathing problems, trigger asthma attacks, and increase hospital visits for respiratory distress.
Why Pollution Spiked Again
Experts attribute the sudden surge in air pollution to a combination of stagnant weather conditions, low wind speeds, and high concentrations of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10). These factors are causing pollutants to remain close to the ground, intensifying the smog.
Citizen Response and Call for Action
Many Delhi-NCR residents are expressing alarm and demanding more robust, long-term measures. People are calling for:
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Stricter enforcement of emission norms
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Better public transport options
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Immediate steps to control dust and construction-related pollution
Looking Ahead: What Needs to Be Done
Environmentalists argue that short-term fixes are not enough. They urge the government to implement stricter and sustained pollution control policies, increase green cover, and enhance pollution monitoring to prevent future crises. Without long-term change, these smog episodes may become more frequent and impactful.
