Delhi air quality remains in very poor category
The national capital recorded an average AQI of 389 on Thursday as thick smog caused breathing difficulties for residents.
Delhi's air quality remained in the very poor category on Thursday, with the city's average Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 389 at 8 am, according to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. The Indian Express reported that thick smog covered parts of the capital, with residents experiencing eye irritation and breathing difficulties.
Several areas recorded higher pollution levels. IIT Delhi and Rohini both recorded severe pollution with an AQI of 474, while Alipur recorded a severe AQI of 427, according to reports from The Indian Express and The Tribune. Jahangirpuri recorded an AQI of 417, which was the highest in the capital since February, according to Scroll.
Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa blamed stubble burning in Punjab for the worsening pollution. Sirsa claimed that 77 per cent of the stubble had already been burnt, based on Punjab government data. He also noted that more than 1,500 non-Delhi vehicles below Bharat Stage-6 emission norms were turned back on Sunday under the Winter Action Plan.
In the surrounding regions, Noida recorded a very poor AQI of 308, while Greater Noida recorded 267 and Ghaziabad recorded 276, according to Scroll. In Haryana, Gurugram recorded an average AQI of 225, while Faridabad recorded 118. The Winter Action Plan curbs, which include restrictions on certain vehicles, will remain in force until February 28.