Air pollution breaks records in NCR ahead of Diwali, AQI crosses 300 in Noida-Ghaziabad

Noida, October 18 (IANS). Just ahead of Diwali, air pollution levels in the National Capital Region (NCR) are becoming increasingly dangerous. According to the latest data, the air quality index (AQI) in many areas of Delhi, Noida and Ghaziabad has crossed 300, which is considered in the ‘very poor’ category. In some areas the situation is so bad that the AQI has even crossed the red mark. Very high levels of air pollution were recorded in various areas of Noida. AQI achieved 244 in Sector-62, 286 in Sector-1, while 290 in Sector-116. The most dangerous situation was seen in Sector-125, where AQI was recorded at 319, which is very close to the ‘severe’ category. The level of pollution in the capital Delhi is constantly increasing. AQI was recorded at 223 in Okhla Phase-2, 277 in Pusa and 282 in Munkad. While AQI reached 359 in Wazirpur, 312 in Bawana and 379 in Anand Vihar, which directly warns of ‘severe’ category. The AQI was 290 in Ghaziabad’s Vasundhara and 298 in Indirapuram, while 325 was recorded in Sanjay Nagar and 351 in Loni. The average air quality in the entire district is more than 300, due to which common citizens find it difficult to breathe. In view of the increasing severity of air pollution, Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Phase-1 has been implemented in Noida, Delhi and Ghaziabad. This morning, government crews are trying to control dust on the roads with water sprinklers. Steps like washing of roads, covering at construction sites and strict on burning of garbage are being taken. Health experts have appealed to the citizens not to go out without any need and if they do, then use masks. This time is very sensitive for children, the elderly and respiratory patients. –IANS PKT/AS Share this story Tags