Delhi NCR Air Pollution Alert: AQI Severe for Second Day, Temperature Dips to 10.4°C

Air Quality Worsens Across Capital as GRAP Stage III Comes Into Force

The national capital woke up to another choking morning on Wednesday. The Delhi NCR air pollution alert stayed in place as the Air Quality Index (AQI) touched 414, keeping it in the severe category for the second consecutive day.

According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the city’s air remains heavily polluted. This triggered Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), under which construction work and certain industrial activities face immediate restrictions.

Toxic air thickens over the city

Officials confirmed that the air quality has been fluctuating between “very poor” and “severe” since Diwali. Calm winds, vehicle emissions, and stubble burning in nearby states continue to worsen conditions. The cold morning breeze and low temperature have trapped pollutants close to the ground, creating a blanket of smog across the NCR region.

The minimum temperature dropped to 10.4°C, nearly three degrees below normal for mid-November. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) expects similar conditions to persist through the week.

Health impact and precautions

Health experts have urged residents — especially children, the elderly, and those with asthma or heart disease — to stay indoors. They advised people to wear N95 masks outdoors and avoid early morning walks. Air purifiers, proper ventilation, and limited outdoor activity can help reduce exposure.

Action under GRAP Stage III

Under Stage III rules, authorities may ban diesel generators, halt construction at major sites, and impose stricter traffic controls. Delhi Police and municipal teams have begun field checks to ensure compliance. Government agencies are also deploying anti-smog guns and water sprinklers across key roads.

Way forward

Environmental experts emphasize that tackling pollution requires cooperation between Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh. They urge strict control on crop-residue burning and faster adoption of clean fuels in transport and industry.

The Delhi NCR air pollution alert serves as a strong reminder that air quality must remain a top priority this winter. Immediate collective action — both by authorities and citizens — is the only way to breathe easier in the days ahead.