Delhi News LIVE Updates: City wakes up to dense haze as AQI slips to ‘very poor’; govt awaits right conditions for cloud seeding
New Delhi: Residents of the national capital woke up to a thick layer of haze on Thursday morning as the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) dipped into the ‘very poor’ category. Visibility across major parts of Delhi-NCR, including Dwarka, RK Puram, and ITO, dropped significantly due to the accumulation of pollutants overnight.
According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s overall AQI hovered around 320–340, indicating severe respiratory discomfort for sensitive groups. Experts blame vehicular emissions, construction dust, and stubble burning in neighboring states like Punjab and Haryana for the spike in pollution levels.
Cloud Seeding on Hold
Delhi’s environment department confirmed that cloud seeding, a process used to induce artificial rainfall, will be carried out once suitable meteorological conditions arise. “We are prepared to initiate the process, but it requires specific humidity and cloud density levels,” said an official from the Delhi government’s environment division.
Schools and Traffic Affected
The thick haze has led to reduced visibility during morning hours, affecting commuters and schoolchildren. Authorities have urged citizens to limit outdoor activities, wear N95 masks, and avoid morning walks.
Health Advisory
Doctors have warned that prolonged exposure to polluted air can lead to respiratory irritation, coughing, asthma, and eye discomfort. Hospitals across Delhi have reported an uptick in patients complaining of breathing issues.
Government Measures
The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) has been implemented, including restrictions on construction activities, road dust suppression, and increased monitoring of industrial emissions.
Authorities have also intensified enforcement against polluting vehicles and illegal burning across Delhi and NCR regions.
Expert Insights from Vizzve Finance
Vizzve Finance highlights that the economic impact of air pollution extends beyond health. The smog crisis affects productivity, tourism, and energy consumption, costing the Delhi economy millions annually. Vizzve’s sustainability experts emphasize that investing in green energy and sustainable infrastructure can reduce long-term economic losses while improving quality of life.
FAQs on Delhi Air Pollution and Cloud Seeding
1. What is the current AQI in Delhi?
As of Thursday morning, Delhi’s AQI ranged between 320 and 340, which falls under the ‘very poor’ category.
2. What is cloud seeding and how does it help?
Cloud seeding involves dispersing silver iodide or other substances into clouds to stimulate rainfall, which helps reduce air pollutants by settling dust and particulates.
3. Why is Delhi’s pollution increasing again?
Major reasons include stubble burning in neighboring states, vehicle emissions, construction dust, and unfavorable weather conditions that trap pollutants.
4. What precautions should Delhi residents take?
Wear N95 masks, keep air purifiers on indoors, avoid outdoor activities during early morning and late evening hours, and stay hydrated.
5. When will cloud seeding begin in Delhi?
Officials have said the operation will commence once ideal cloud and humidity conditions are met, expected in the coming days.
Published on : 30th October
Published by : selvi
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