New Delhi, Nov 06 : A thick layer of pollutants continues to engulf the national capital as the air quality remains in the ‘severe’ category for the fifth consecutive day. The overall air quality index level of Delhi stood at 432 at 11:30 a.m., according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Delhi University recorded an AQI of 473, while the airport at Terminal 3 noted an AQI of 559, Noida at 616, IIT Delhi at 517, and Gurugram at 516, all in the ‘critical’ range, according to SAFAR data at 7 am.
Key areas such as Pusa and Lodhi Road recorded AQI levels of 407 and 450, respectively, both categorized as ‘severe.’ The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) invoked Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in the entire National Capital Region (NCR) on Sunday to prevent further deterioration of air quality.
Under Stage IV of GRAP, only CNG, electric, and BS VI-compliant vehicles from other states are permitted entry, with exemptions for essential services. The Commission also directed Delhi and NCR states to implement restrictions, including a ban on construction work for linear public projects and allowing 50% of government and private office staff to work from home.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has called a high-level meeting today at 12:00 pm to discuss the city’s worsening air pollution crisis. The meeting will be attended by Delhi’s Environment Minister, Gopal Rai, and officials of all concerned departments, addressing the “apocalyptical” air pollution situation.
