New Delhi, 16 May (H.S.): On Friday, the air quality in Delhi deteriorated to the very poor category, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 301 at 7 am, as reported by the Central Pollution Control Board. Following rainfall earlier in the week, a thin layer of dust and smog enveloped the city, leading to increased pollution levels.

The AQI scale categorizes 0-50 as good, 51-100 as satisfactory, 101-200 as moderate, 201-300 as poor, and 301-400 as very poor. Areas like Alipur and Anand Vihar reported AQI above 301, while Mundka and Wazirabad exceeded 400. Nearby NCR cities also recorded poor air quality, with Gurugram at 294 and Noida at 289.

Dust storms brought dust from northern Pakistan, reducing visibility significantly at Indira Gandhi International Airport. Doctors have warned residents to be cautious, as the particulate matter can harm lung health and lead to progressive lung diseases.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Indrani Sarkar