New Delhi: The level of air pollution has started increasing in the national capital Delhi even before Diwali. The Air Quality Index (AQI) has reached dangerous levels in many areas of the city. At some places, AQI has been recorded beyond 400, raising health concerns for the people. Many restrictions have been implemented to control pollution, but despite this, the expected improvement in air quality is not visible.
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)’s Sameer App, air quality was recorded in the poor category at 31 out of 54 monitoring centers in Delhi, while the situation was very poor at three centres. Let us know what the level of pollution is in different areas of Delhi.
Which areas of Delhi have the most pollution?
Very high AQI levels have been recorded in many major areas of Delhi. According to available data, AQI reached 459 in Shahdara and 457 in Sonia Vihar. The pollution level in New Delhi, Punjabi Bagh and Safdarjung Enclave also remained around 390.
AQI in 10 major areas of Delhi
| Area | AQI |
| New Delhi | 399 |
| Lakshmi Nagar | 253 |
| Anand Vihar | 179 |
| Punjabi Bagh | 391 |
| Rohini | 326 |
| Safdarjung Enclave | 398 |
| Saket | 378 |
| ITO | 349 |
| Shahdara | 459 |
| Sonia Vihar | 457 |
Why is Delhi’s air not improving despite restrictions?
Many steps have been taken to control pollution in Delhi. Entry of foreign vehicles below BS-VI standards has been banned since November 1. Apart from this, unnecessary construction work has also been banned at some places.
However, despite these measures, the pollution level does not seem to be reducing. Diwali fireworks are yet to come. In such a situation, the smoke emanating from firecrackers can further affect the air quality.
Which vehicles are being checked at Delhi border?
Transport enforcement teams have been deployed on the borders of Delhi to control pollution. Vehicles are being checked at major locations like Delhi-Ghazipur Border, Aya Nagar Border, Afsara Border and Seemapuri.
Especially the vehicles coming from Gurugram to Delhi are being monitored. During the investigation, the number plates and emission standards of the vehicles are being examined. If any vehicle is found to have standards below BS-VI, it is not being allowed to enter Delhi and is being sent back.
