Delhi Struggles as AQI Crosses 400
Smog Storm Over the Capital
In recent days, Delhi’s air quality has deteriorated sharply — the AQI (Air Quality Index) at several monitoring stations has surged beyond 400, entering the “severe” category. This decline has forced the government to impose Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which includes banning non-essential construction, curbing industrial activity with polluting fuels, and enforcing stricter emissions standards.
The health and economic costs of this crisis are profound. High pollution increases respiratory illnesses, especially among children and the elderly, and disrupts daily life and productivity. This infographic underscores the urgent need for long-term policy solutions — cleaner fuels, stricter enforcement, better public transport, and coordinated efforts with neighboring regions — to prevent Delhi from spiralling into a recurring smog emergency.
