(Image source from: PTI)

The city of New Delhi experienced severe air pollution for the third consecutive day on Friday, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching a high of 409, as reported by the government's pollution control agency. The city was enveloped in dense smog, which reduced visibility and disrupted both traffic and flight operations. Out of the 39 monitoring stations in Delhi, 21 registered severe AQI levels, with four classified as 'severe plus'. The areas of Jahangirpuri, Bawana, Wazirpur, and Rohini experienced the worst pollution, with AQI levels exceeding 450. However, the overall 24-hour air quality showed a slight improvement compared to the previous day's AQI of 432. In response to the worsening air pollution, the government implemented strict anti-pollution measures under Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), following an order from the Commission for Air Quality Management. Additionally, the Delhi government announced that classes for students up to Grade V would shift to online mode from Friday until further notice due to the poor air quality. Under Stage 3 of GRAP, all interstate buses from the NCR states, except electric, CNG, and BS-VI diesel vehicles, are prohibited from entering Delhi.

The government will take measures such as spraying water on major roads daily and considering online classes for young students. Additionally, restrictions will be imposed on the movement of older petrol and diesel vehicles in Delhi and surrounding districts, as the city's air quality has deteriorated to the severe level due to vehicle emissions, crop burning, and unfavourable weather conditions, including low wind speeds.