Severity of the Situation
Delhi-NCR’s air quality has plunged into the “severe” category for the second consecutive day, recording an average AQI of 414 as of November 12, 2025. Several areas, including Anand Vihar, Bawana, and Mundka, reported even higher levels—crossing 450, placing them in the “hazardous” range. Such conditions threaten not only those with respiratory ailments but also the general healthy population.
Emergency Measures Under GRAP Stage III
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has enforced Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to counter the escalating pollution.
Key actions include:
- Ban on non-essential construction and demolition activities, including stone crushers and mining work.
- Continuing essential projects (railways, metro, defense) under strict dust control protocols.
- Restriction on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles, allowing only BS-VI compliant, CNG, and electric vehicles on the roads.
Impact on Education and Work
To protect vulnerable groups:
- Schools up to Class 5 have shifted to hybrid (online + physical) learning to reduce outdoor exposure for children.
- Private offices are encouraged to adopt work-from-home policies where possible.
Health and Environmental Implications
The toxic air is not just an environmental concern—it’s a public health emergency. Prolonged exposure at these levels can cause breathing difficulties, heart strain, and long-term lung damage, particularly among children and the elderly. Authorities advise residents to avoid outdoor activity and use air purifiers indoors.
Root Causes and Call for Action
Officials link the pollution spike to calm winds, temperature inversion, and stagnant air, which trap pollutants close to the surface. While temporary measures help contain damage, the larger issue of emission control and urban planning remains unresolved.
The situation raises a crucial question:
How long will Delhi continue to breathe poison before a sustainable, year-round solution is enforced?
