New Delhi : The national capital woke up to a thick blanket of toxic smog on Friday, November 13, as air pollution levels surged into the ‘Severe’ category. Delhi’s overall Air Quality Index (AQI) touched 403 at 7:30 AM, marking an alarming rise of 82 points in just 24 hours.
The latest reading marks the first time since January 19, when the AQI stood at 410, that Delhi has entered the severe pollution zone.
32 Monitoring Stations Record Severe Air Quality
Pollution levels remained alarming across several parts of the capital. Out of 59 monitoring stations reporting data, 32 registered severe air quality readings. IIT Delhi recorded the highest AQI at 488.
The situation was further aggravated by a sharp rise in PM2.5 concentrations. Levels more than doubled within 24 hours on Thursday, reaching 244 micrograms per cubic metre by 6 PM — over four times the national safe limit.
Farm Fires Add to Pollution Concerns
Satellite monitoring by NASA detected 4,107 farm fires across Punjab and Haryana between October 1 and November 12. Punjab accounted for 3,729 incidents, while Haryana recorded 378.
As many as 96 farm fires were detected on Thursday alone. During the corresponding period last year, the two states had recorded 4,220 incidents.
With pollution levels deteriorating, Delhi continues to face mounting concerns over hazardous air quality and its impact on public health.
