New Delhi [India]: The air quality in Delhi showed slight improvement on Monday morning but remained in the “very poor” category, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 345 at 8 a.m.—down from 391 the previous day.
According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), AQI levels across several parts of the city remained high: Anand Vihar (379), Alipur (360), Ashok Vihar (367), Bawana (412), Burari Crossing (389), Chandni Chowk (360), Dwarka Sector-8 (356), ITO (367), Jahangirpuri (389), Mundka (378), Narela (368), Okhla Phase 2 (348), Patparganj (376), Punjabi Bagh (324), RK Puram (363), Rohini (390), and Sonia Vihar (369).
Residents continued to voice concern over the hazardous air quality. Speaking to ANI, local resident Rahul said, “Pollution is extremely high. This isn’t fog—it’s pollution. We’re facing breathing difficulties and eye irritation. The government must take action. Firecrackers were burst, and smoke from stubble burning is also reaching Delhi.”
On Sunday, the capital’s overall AQI stood at 391, placing it in the “very poor” range, according to CPCB data.
The CPCB classifies AQI levels as follows: 0–50 ‘good’, 51–100 ‘satisfactory’, 101–200 ‘moderate’, 201–300 ‘poor’, 301–400 ‘very poor’, and 401–500 ‘severe’.
Meanwhile, Delhi Police detained several people protesting at India Gate, who were demanding stronger government measures to combat air pollution in the National Capital Region.
DCP (New Delhi District) Devesh Kumar Mahla said, “India Gate is not a designated protest site. As per Supreme Court directions, Jantar Mantar is the approved protest location. India Gate is a national monument where families visit, and VIP routes pass through this area, so we are regularly deployed here to maintain order.”
