Delhi's Air Crisis Deepens: AQI Soars, Air Purifier Sales Explode Amidst Political Spat

Delhi is once again grappling with severe air pollution, as the Air Quality Index (AQI) has surged past the 400 mark across the National Capital Region (NCR), reaching over 500 in some areas. This alarming deterioration, a sharp rise from previous days, poses serious health risks for all residents, particularly children, the elderly, and those with respiratory or heart conditions.

Doctors are advising reduced outdoor activity, mask usage, and keeping windows closed. Despite the enforcement of GRAP-4, no significant relief has been observed. This crisis has led to a dramatic shift in consumer behaviour, with air purifier sales soaring nearly five times.

What was once considered a luxury is now viewed as a basic necessity, as residents seek cleaner air indoors. Concurrently, the deepening pollution crisis has reignited a political blame game, with the Aam Aadmi Party and the Lieutenant Governor exchanging sharp criticisms over responsibility for the deteriorating air quality.