Thu Dec 19 19:41:47 UTC 2024: ## Delhi Chokes on “Severe-Plus” Air Pollution for Fourth Day
**NEW DELHI, December 20, 2024** – Delhi’s air quality remained in the “severe-plus” category for the fourth consecutive day on Thursday, making it the most polluted city in India. The 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 451, according to official data. While a slight improvement to “severe” is predicted for Friday, the situation continues to cause widespread concern.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticized the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government for its handling of the crisis. Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva stated that residents have endured severe pollution for 72 hours, with the city remaining under Stage-IV of the Graded Response Action Plan. He criticized Chief Minister Atishi and Environment Minister Gopal Rai for failing to adequately address the situation.
The AQI scale ranges from 0-500, with 401-450 considered “severe” and 451-500 “severe-plus.” The prolonged period of severe air pollution has raised serious health concerns for Delhi’s residents.
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