India: Air pollution in New Delhi reaching severe level January 13

Event

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), as of Monday, January 14, the air quality in New Delhi is recorded as 'very poor' to 'severe', showing a level of fine particules at 386. On Sunday, January 13, the air quality index (AQI) in the capital was also reported as severly unealthy, reaching 414. According to the CPCB, the measure of breathable particles known as PM 2.5 (particles smaller than 2.5 microns in diameter) will reach around 200 microgram per cubic metre in the next three days.

Context

New Delhi is notoriously one of the world's most polluted cities. AQI is measured using PM10 and PM2.5 indices, which measure particule levels of 10 or 2.5 micrometers in diameter. For the Indian health authorities, AQI between 0-50 is considered "good," between 51-100 "satisfactory," between 101-200 "moderate," between 201-300 "poor," between 301-400 "very poor," and between 401-500 "severe" and beyond 500 is severe plus emergency.

Advice

Individuals in the Delhi region are advised to monitor updates to the air quality index and avoid outdoor activities. Children and those with chronic respiratory illnesses should exercise additional caution. Do not hesitate to seek medical attention if experiencing breathing difficulties or other health concerns