Mon Dec 15 05:04:19 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:

Summary:

On December 15, 2025, New Delhi is experiencing severely hazardous air quality. The Air Quality Index (AQI) has reached 498, with some areas hitting the maximum measurable value of 500. Weak winds and low temperatures are trapping pollutants, and the forecast predicts that air quality will remain “very poor” or “severe” for the next six days. Efforts to combat pollution with anti-smog guns are underway, but the situation remains critical.

News Article:

Delhi Chokes on ‘Severe’ Air Pollution, AQI Nears Maximum as Winter Smog Settles In

New Delhi, December 15, 2025 – New Delhi is grappling with dangerously high levels of air pollution as the Air Quality Index (AQI) soared to 498 on Monday. The city is shrouded in a thick blanket of smog, with several monitoring stations reporting ‘severe’ air quality conditions. Jahangirpuri recorded the worst AQI at 498.

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) categorizes an AQI over 400 as “severe,” indicating a significant health risk. Wazirpur hit the maximum measurable AQI value of 500, beyond which the CPCB does not register data.

Weak winds and low temperatures are exacerbating the crisis, trapping pollutants near the surface. The Air Quality Early Warning System (AQEWS) forecasts that air quality will remain in the “very poor” to “severe” range for the next six days.

“The current average wind speed, which is less than 10 kmph is unfavourable for dispersion of pollutants,” said the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The maximum temperature during the day is expected to settle at around 25 degrees Celsius.

Authorities are deploying anti-smog guns to spray water in an attempt to reduce pollution levels. However, the long-term effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen. Residents are advised to take precautions, limit outdoor activities, and wear masks to protect themselves from the harmful air.

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