New Delhi: As Delhi-NCR’s air quality plunges to hazardous levels, residents are witnessing multiple health complications, especially with the onset of winter. Notably, the air quality index (AQI) in parts of Delhi is between 300 and 400, which is considered “very poor.” Experts warn that with upcoming Diwali celebrations and seasonal stubble burning in neighboring states, AQI levels could surpass 500, reaching in the “severe” category.
However, it is worth mentioning that despite pollution levels falling in the “very bad” category, the cities in the National Capital Region (NCR) are witnessing a slightly weather air quality. Notably earlier this week we reported Noida waking up to a blanket of thick smog days ahead of Diwali with GRAP-2 already enforced. Similar improvements are also being witnessed in other cities including Gurugram, Ghaziabad, Faridabad and the national capital, Delhi itself.
AQI across different localities in Delhi: IQAir Data
| S. No. | STATION | AQI |
| 1 | Anand Vihar | 391 |
| 2 | Anand Vihar, Delhi – DPCC | 391 |
| 3 | Pooth Khurd, Bawana | 281 |
| 4 | Rohini | 274 |
| 5 | Rohini, Delhi – DPCC | 274 |
| 6 | Vivek Vihar | 270 |
| 7 | Sonia Vihar | 263 |
| 8 | Narela, Delhi – DPCC | 241 |
| 9 | Punjabi Bagh | 236 |
| 10 | VV Block C Station | 222 |
How are residents battling the surge in air pollution?
As the pollution level continues to surge in Delhi-NCR, a recent survey by LogicCircles reveals that approximately 22 per cent of Delhi residents plan to leave the city temporarily in the coming month to escape the toxic air, with many intending to travel during Diwali.
Use of air purifiers
Furthermore, the LogicCircles survey, which gathered insights from over 11,000 respondents in Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Faridabad, and Ghaziabad, found that 18 per cent plan to use air purifiers to reduce health risks at home. However, high costs and limited awareness about air purifiers deter some residents, who instead focus on immunity-boosting practices and natural remedies.
Use of masks during outdoor activities
Meanwhile for outdoor protection, 23 per cent of survey participants indicated plans to wear masks during daily routines, with 18 per cent combining masks with immunity drinks to counteract the effects of pollution. Still, around 14 per cent of respondents admitted they have no special plans, opting to endure the pollution without additional precautions.
Health complications caused by worsening AQI
The survey also highlighted the adverse health effects many Delhi-NCR residents are already experiencing due to rising pollution levels. Roughly 36 per cent of families in the region report at least one member suffering from sore throats, coughs, or breathing difficulties, while 27 per cent have family members experiencing runny noses or congestion.
