Following Diwali celebrations, northern India is grappling with a severe air pollution crisis, as air quality across the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) and other major cities plunged into 'very poor' and 'severe' categories. Cities such as Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram, Faridabad, Lucknow, Kanpur, and Jaipur are reporting alarming Air Quality Index (AQI) readings, prompting urgent health advisories.
NCR Cities Face 'Very Poor' Air
According to figures from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Noida recorded an average AQI of 341, placing it firmly in the 'very poor' category (301-400). Ghaziabad registered an even higher AQI of 357, making it one of the worst-hit regions in Uttar Pradesh. Gurugram and Faridabad in Haryana also reported 'very poor' air, with AQI readings of 328 and 342 respectively. Notably, Faridabad's Sector 11 and Gurugram's TERI Gram monitoring stations crossed the 400-mark, entering the 'severe' category (401-500).
Pollution Spreads Beyond Capital Region
The crisis is not confined to the NCR. Major cities like Lucknow and Kanpur recorded AQI readings around 385, indicating widespread pollution across northern and central India. Jaipur also registered a 'very poor' AQI of 313. These elevated levels are attributed to stagnant weather conditions, which trap pollutants close to the ground, exacerbated by festival-related emissions.
Health Warnings and Meteorological Outlook
Health experts are warning that prolonged exposure to 'very poor' air can cause respiratory illness even in healthy individuals, with increased risks for children, senior citizens, and those with pre-existing respiratory or cardiac conditions. Residents are advised to minimize outdoor exposure, especially during morning and late-evening hours.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts dry weather and shallow to moderate fog, which will likely worsen the situation by reducing atmospheric mixing. Without significant rainfall or strong northwesterly winds, air quality is expected to remain poor or deteriorate further.
Public Measures and Future Outlook
Authorities and experts urge residents to adopt measures such as avoiding open burning, using public transport, and keeping windows closed during peak pollution times. The current situation underscores the urgent need for long-term strategies to combat air pollution in the region, particularly after seasonal events that contribute to a surge in particulate matter.