Sat Nov 02 14:38:20 UTC 2024: ## Delhi Choked by Smog as Air Quality Plummets to “Very Poor” After Diwali

**New Delhi, November 2, 2024:** A thick layer of smog blanketed the national capital on Saturday morning, with air quality dipping to “very poor” levels, prompting concerns about the health of Delhi’s residents.

According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 296 at 7 a.m., indicating “very poor” air quality. Several areas across the city registered even higher AQI levels, including Anand Vihar (380), R.K. Puram (346), IGI Airport T3 (342), and Dwarka Sector 8 (308).

The poor air quality has already begun to impact the lives of Delhi residents. A cyclist near India Gate told ANI that breathing became difficult while cycling, jogging, or engaging in any strenuous activity. “There are serious problems because of pollution,” the cyclist stated, “You don’t feel it when you walk, but if you cycle, jog or do any heavy work, you’ll feel it’s quite difficult to breathe.”

This alarming situation comes a day after Diwali celebrations, which are known to contribute significantly to air pollution. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported that most areas in Delhi recorded an AQI above 350 on Friday, exceeding the “very poor” category and raising significant health concerns.

The rising air pollution levels pose a severe threat to public health, particularly for vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory issues.

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