Recent satellite imagery from NASA has revealed the concerning spread of toxic smoke engulfing Delhi, leading experts to describe it as a looming “crisis” of air pollution in the nation’s capital. The visuals from NASA Worldview depict a thick layer of smog covering the northern plains of India, causing the air quality to rapidly deteriorate in cities surrounding Delhi.

On Wednesday morning, the air quality in Delhi remained in the “severe” category, with several stations across the city reporting high levels of PM 2.5 (particulate matter) and carbon monoxide (CO) pollutants. Neighboring areas such as Ghaziabad, Gurugram, Noida, Greater Noida, and Faridabad also experienced unhealthy air quality.

The Anand Vihar station in Delhi recorded PM 2.5 at 500, categorizing it as “severe,” while CO was measured at 112 and NO2 at 128, falling under the “moderate” category according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Similarly, the Bawana station had PM 2.5 and PM 10 at 500 (severe) and CO at 110 (moderate).

At Delhi Technical University (DTU) station, PM 10 was at 456 (severe), PM 2.5 at 356 (“very poor”), and CO at 115 (moderate) categories. The station at Dwarka sector 8 registered PM 10 at 465, PM 2.5 at 457 (severe), and CO at 135 (moderate).

The Air Quality Index (AQI) categorizes air quality as follows: 0-50 (good), 51-100 (satisfactory), 101-200 (moderate), 201-300 (poor), 301-400 (very poor), and 401-500 (severe).

The alarming increase in air pollution in Delhi is a major concern for the region, highlighting the urgent need for measures to mitigate the worsening situation. Authorities must take immediate action to address the causes of this crisis and implement effective strategies to improve the air quality and protect the health of the residents.