Delhi’s AQI crosses 400 in several areas, toxic smog pushes city into ‘severe’ zone

New Delhi: The national capital's air quality deteriorated sharply on Saturday, with several parts of the city recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) above 400, a level categorised as ‘severe’. The thick blanket of smog pushed the national capital into the ‘red zone’, making it one of the most polluted cities in India.

According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s 24-hour average AQI measured at 4 pm stood at 361, placing it second among the most polluted cities nationwide, PTI reported. On Friday, the city’s AQI was 322 — the highest in the country at that time.

Of the 38 CPCB monitoring stations across Delhi, several showed alarming pollution levels. The AQI touched 420 in Wazirpur, 418 in Burari, 411 in Vivek Vihar, 406 in Nehru Nagar, 404 in Alipur, and 402 at ITO, all within the ‘severe’ range, as per CPCB’s Sameer app.

Doctors have cautioned that the annual smog that engulfs Delhi each winter affects more than just the lungs. It can also impair brain function. "You’re not just imagining it if you’ve ever stepped outside on a smoggy day and felt foggy-headed, dizzy, or unusually tired,” said Dr Vinit Banga, Director and Head of Neurology at Fortis Hospital.

He said that when PM2.5 particles enter the bloodstream, they can reach the brain, causing inflammation and oxidative stress. "These fine particles interfere with neuron communication, leading to headaches, sluggish thinking, irritability, and mood changes,” Dr Banga said.

The doctor also urged residents to exercise caution during periods of poor air quality. "When the AQI is poor, stay indoors with air purifiers, wear N95 masks outdoors, hydrate well, and avoid strenuous exercise,” he advised.