NEW DELHI (Reuters) – A thick layer of toxic smog covered much of northern India on Monday. The Delhi pollution reading reached its highest this year after dense overnight fog. #DelhiPollutionReading
Each winter, cold air traps emissions, dust, and smoke from illegal farm fires, forming the smog. Visibility dropped to 100 meters in Delhi and Chandigarh, though authorities said flights and trains continued with some delays.
India’s pollution control authority reported a 24-hour AQI reading of 484, classified as “severe plus.” This was the year’s highest. According to IQAir, New Delhi had the world’s worst air quality, with “hazardous” levels and PM2.5 concentrations at 130.9 times the WHO’s safe limit.
Experts note that AQI scores differ between countries because each uses a different scale. Thus, the same pollutant concentration may translate into different scores.
Delhi authorities ordered schools to hold classes online and increased restrictions on construction and vehicle movement. Low wind speed and unfavorable weather contributed to the measures.
Farm fires have fueled up to 40% of Delhi’s pollution, according to SAFAR. Satellites detected 1,334 fires in six states on Sunday, marking the most in four days.
Despite the polluted air, many residents continued their daily routines. Many buildings were barely visible, including Delhi’s iconic India Gate. #DelhiPollutionReading
“Morning walk usually feels good, but now the air is polluted and we’re forced to wear a mask… There is a burning sensation in the eyes and slight difficulty in breathing,” Akshay Pathak, a resident of the city told the ANI news agency, in which Reuters has a minority stake.
India’s weather department has predicted “dense to very dense fog” on Monday for northern states, including Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Rajasthan.
Furthermore, the Delhi pollution reading soared due to the accumulation of pollutants, including smoke from illegal farm fires and industrial emissions. The thick smog also hindered visibility, with the AQI reaching dangerous levels. Experts warned that prolonged exposure could worsen respiratory conditions and other health problems.
