Delhi’s air quality remained critically poor, marking nine days of persistent smog following Diwali. Key areas in the city reported alarming Air Quality Index (AQI) levels: Bawana recorded 409, New Moti Bagh 411, and Anand Vihar 393. Data from SAFAR indicated an overall AQI of 358 as of Saturday morning, while visuals showed dense smog over Kartavya Path and other parts of the city.
The Delhi government has deployed “drone-based mist spraying” technology to control pollution, starting trials at Anand Vihar—a pollution hotspot. These drones, equipped to hold 15 liters of water, disperse a fine mist to capture airborne pollutants, especially in congested spaces. Environment Minister Gopal Rai stated that the drone initiative is part of a larger Winter Action Plan, launched on September 25, which outlines 21 actions to address seasonal pollution. Additionally, 80 mobile anti-smog guns, 68 stationary guns, and 146 high-rise anti-smog devices have been deployed to combat dust pollution across 13 targeted hotspots.
Health impacts of the high AQI are evident. Many residents report respiratory issues, with common symptoms including coughing, eye irritation, and headaches. Health experts from Sir Ganga Ram Hospital warned of the correlation between rising AQI levels and an increase in respiratory complaints, particularly affecting elderly individuals and those with conditions like asthma and COPD.
(By Ankita Singh, Web Team at C6N)
