Delhi Struggles with Escalating Air Pollution: A National Crisis

Delhi's air pollution in November reached alarming levels, ranking it fourth among India's most polluted cities, despite reduced stubble-burning influence. The city's PM2.5 level nearly doubled from October. Nine of the top ten polluted cities in India exceeded previous year's pollution levels, highlighting a nationwide air quality crisis.

Delhi's air quality took a severe hit in November, with pollution levels nearly doubling compared to October, as the national capital adjusted to the fourth spot among India's most polluted cities. A recent report by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air reveals the ongoing environmental challenges the city faces.

Despite a reduction in stubble-burning influence, which dropped to 7% from last year's 20%, Delhi recorded a PM2.5 level of 215 micrograms per cubic metre in November, underscoring the persistent air quality issues. The city experienced 23 'very poor' days, six 'severe' days, and one 'poor' day throughout the month.

A nationwide problem, nine of the ten most polluted cities, failed to stay within safe pollution levels even for a day. Ghaziabad remains the most polluted, while Rajasthan, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh report significant pollution. In stark contrast, Shillong in Meghalaya was the cleanest city with a PM2.5 level of just 7 micrograms per cubic metre.

(With inputs from agencies.)