Delhi-NCR chokes as AQI crosses 400 at multiple monitoring stations, smog engulfs city

Air pollution continued to pose a serious concern across Delhi-NCR on Sunday, with several monitoring stations in the national capital recording Air Quality Index (AQI) levels above 400, placing them in the 'severe' category.

A thick blanket of smog covered several parts of Delhi, reducing visibility and adding to concerns over the deteriorating air quality.

According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), IIT Delhi recorded an AQI of 425 as of 7 am, the highest among the reported locations. ITO followed with 415, while the Commonwealth Sports Complex registered 403.

Delhi University's North Campus and Pusa both recorded AQI levels of 402, while Burari Crossing stood at 400.

Several other areas also reported alarmingly high pollution levels. Punjabi Bagh recorded an AQI of 386, followed by Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) at 383. Akshardham Temple and Anand Vihar both registered 365, while RK Puram recorded 339.

Okhla Phase-2 and Maidan Garhi reported AQI readings of 330 and 325, respectively.

Across the wider NCR region, Noida recorded an AQI of 313, while Gurugram stood at 324 and Faridabad at 311. Ghaziabad registered 294, while Greater Noida recorded 283.

The CPCB classifies an AQI between 301 and 400 as 'very poor', while readings above 400 fall in the 'severe' category, indicating a serious deterioration in air quality.

Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast rainfall, thunderstorms and strong winds in several parts of the country over the coming days. Weather conditions are expected to vary across different regions.

(With IANS inputs)