New Delhi, 20 November (Udaipur Kiran)। Air pollution continues to worsen in the national capital, with dense and prolonged smog reducing visibility across the city. Low wind speed and dipping temperatures are contributing to the severe pollution spell. On Thursday, several areas of Delhi were engulfed in a heavy layer of haze, pushing the average Air Quality Index (AQI) close to 400 — a level classified as ‘severe’.

Iconic locations such as India Gate, Rajpath and Rashtrapati Bhavan remained covered in thick smog. At ITO, the AQI hovered around 399, while the situation was even more alarming in areas like Tughlakabad, Mehrauli and Badarpur, where AQI touched 479. Smog was clearly visible along city roads and in public parks.

The situation was similarly grim in the National Capital Region. Faridabad recorded an AQI of 380, Gurugram 385, Noida 372, Greater Noida 378 and Ghaziabad 388 — all in the ‘very poor’ to ‘severe’ category.

Residents say the pollution has significantly impacted daily life. Speaking to reporters, a local resident expressed concern: “It has become very difficult. There is breathing discomfort and burning in the eyes. We have to go out for work. If we don’t, we will be stuck at home. Something must be done, but nothing is changing.”

Earlier, in view of deteriorating air quality, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) urged the government to postpone scheduled physical sports events during November and December to protect students’ health. The recommendation followed Supreme Court observations highlighting rising pollution levels and the potential health impact on children.

Related