Pollution Crisis: Delhi's AQI Crosses 300 Again as Toxic Air Chokes the Capital

Delhi's air pollution crisis continues to worsen, with the average Air Quality Index (AQI) crossing the 300 mark again on November 12. The deterioration, which began after Diwali, has pushed several areas towards severe pollution levels. At ITO, the AQI was reported at 394, while Noida also recorded levels above 300. Low wind speeds and increased traffic emissions over the past 72 hours are contributing to the accumulation of pollutants, leaving the region under a thick blanket of smog. Residents are reporting health problems, including throat irritation, skin issues and burning eyes. The hazardous air has been compared in the report to the smoke exposure associated with smoking 24 cigarettes a day. Adding to concerns, the India Meteorological Department has ruled out the possibility of rain in Delhi for now, reducing hopes of any immediate weather-related relief. Meanwhile, with GRAP Stage III restrictions in force, schools in Gautam Buddh Nagar and Ghaziabad will conduct classes for students up to Class 5 in hybrid mode from November 12. Despite government measures and pollution-control claims, the situation continues to raise serious concerns about public health across Delhi-NCR.