India’s financial capital city Mumbai's air quality has become worse than India’s national capital Delhi.&nbsp;

On Thursday, Mumbai recorded the Air Quality Index (AQI) of 316, considered to be ‘very poor', higher than Delhi’s AQI at 263 or in the ‘poor’ category.&nbsp;

An AQI between 201 and 300 is considered *poor*, 301-400 *very poor* and 401-500 *severe*, while an AQI between zero and 50 is considered *good*, 51 and 100 *satisfactory*, and 101 and 200 *moderate.&nbsp;

According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), stagnant winds, drop in temperatures, and suspended pollutants mixing with moisture in the atmosphere are causing haze across the metropolis.&nbsp;

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As Mumbai AQI became worse than Delhi’s, doctors advised people to take precautionary measures like wearing masks, especially those who have respiratory illnesses, while stepping out.

In fact, Mumbai’s civic body, BMC has come up with an action plan to improve air quality.&nbsp;

All 24 administrative wards have been directed to take immediate remedial measures to deal with the rise in AQI levels. The second step is to clean road dust and sprinkle water and also identify air pollution hotspots and micro hotspots.&nbsp;

The consultants held a special meeting earlier this month with the civic body and pointed to four wards that showed a rise in AQI levels, much above 200.&nbsp;

Areas like Colaba-Churchgate, Mankhurd, Borivali, and Malad are the most affected.&nbsp;

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Air pollution is among the most severe health crises of our time. According to the United Nations, it's responsible for seven million premature deaths every year.

The World Health Organization (WHO) says the main pathway of exposure to air pollution is through the respiratory tract.&nbsp;

Breathing in these pollutants leads to inflammation, oxidative stress, immunosuppression, and mutagenicity in cells throughout our body, impacting the lungs, heart, and brain among other organs, and ultimately leading to disease.&nbsp;

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India’s financial capital city Mumbai's air quality has become worse than India’s national capital Delhi. On Thursday, Mumbai recorded the Air Quality Index (AQI) of 316, considered to be ‘very poor', higher than Delhi’s AQI at 263 or in the ‘poor’ category.

India’s financial capital city Mumbai's air quality has become worse than India’s national capital Delhi. On Thursday, Mumbai recorded the Air Quality Index (AQI) of 316, considered to be ‘very poor', higher than Delhi’s AQI at 263 or in the ‘poor’ category. An AQI between 201 and 300 is considered *poor*, 301-400 *very poor* and 401-500 *severe*, while an AQI between zero and 50 is considered *good*, 51 and 100 *satisfactory*, and 101 and 200 *moderate. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), stagnant winds, drop in temperatures, and suspended pollutants mixing with moisture in the atmosphere are causing haze across the metropolis. Also read | BJP inching towards over three-fourth majority on PM Modi’s home turf Gujarat As Mumbai AQI became worse than Delhi’s, doctors advised people to take precautionary measures like wearing masks, especially those who have respiratory illnesses, while stepping out. In fact, Mumbai’s civic body, BMC has come up with an action plan to improve air quality. All 24 administrative wards have been directed to take immediate remedial measures to deal with the rise in AQI levels. The second step is to clean road dust and sprinkle water and also identify air pollution hotspots and micro hotspots. The consultants held a special meeting earlier this month with the civic body and pointed to four wards that showed a rise in AQI levels, much above 200. Areas like Colaba-Churchgate, Mankhurd, Borivali, and Malad are the most affected. Also read | Iran executes first prisoner over anti-regime protests after Mahsa Amini death Air pollution is among the most severe health crises of our time. According to the United Nations, it's responsible for seven million premature deaths every year. The World Health Organization (WHO) says the main pathway of exposure to air pollution is through the respiratory tract. Breathing in these pollutants leads to inflammation, oxidative stress, immunosuppression, and mutagenicity in cells throughout our body, impacting the lungs, heart, and brain among other organs, and ultimately leading to disease.

Mumbai air remains in 'very poor' category, AQI level worse than Delhi

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The Air quality in India's capital New Delhi is worsening day by day. This has prompted the authorities to impose anti-pollution measures,

South Asia Diary: Delhi enveloped in thick layer of smog

It is the same story every year. Once again, India's National Capital Region has been enveloped in toxic smog. Parts of Delhi have recorded AQI of 500. Who is at fault here? Is there a solution? Priyanka Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: India's National Capital Region enveloped in toxic smog

Poor air quality threatens the health of all living beings from humans to even plants. In Sydney, scientists are now monitoring the air quality inside schools to see if it is healthy for children.

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The air quality of the national capital of India is getting worse with each passing day. Air Quality Index (AQI) in the New Delhi and its nearby areas has reached above 600.

India's national capital records AQI level of over 600

In the wake of deteriorating air quality, the Indian capital Delhi has prohibited construction and demolition activities.

On Monday, the air quality index (AQI) was 415 in the Anand Vihar area of Delhi– more than eight times the “good” level, according to the Central Pollution Control Board.

The weather agency has predicted that the air quality would worsen from Tuesday due to calmer winds and other meteorological conditions.

“Experts are predicting that wind speed will fall from Nov. 1 and its direction will change,” Delhi’s environment minister, Gopal Rai, told a news conference on Sunday.

Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-new-delhi-records-30-less-air-pollution-than-last-year-post-diwali-528605">WION Climate Tracker: New Delhi records 30% less air pollution than last year post Diwali</a>

“Based on that, it is being predicted that the AQI would go beyond 400 into the severe category.”

He, however, did not further reveal when the restrictions could be lifted.

AQI is used as a yardstick to gauge the air quality of a region. The higher the AQI value, the greater the level of air pollution and the greater the health concern

A reading of above 400 is considered “severe” that can affect healthy people and seriously impact those with existing illnesses.

Every winter season, just after the Diwali festival, the city of over 20 million witnesses the worst air quality as cold and heavy air traps construction dust and vehicle emissions, apart from the smoke emanating out of crop residues that come from the neighbouring Haryana and Punjab states ahead of the new crop season.

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Meanwhile, the Delhi government has formed 586 teams to monitor the construction works, Rai said, adding that hospitals, railways, airports and other such public activities could be exempted from the ban.

Moreover, 521 machines have been deployed to sprinkle water across the city to settle dust while nearly 233 anti-smog guns have been dispatched, the minister added.

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In the wake of deteriorating air quality, the Indian capital Delhi has prohibited construction and demolition activities. On Monday, the air quality index (AQI) was 415 in the Anand Vihar area of Delhi– more than eight times the “good” level, according to the Central Pollution Control Board.

In the wake of deteriorating air quality, the Indian capital Delhi has prohibited construction and demolition activities. On Monday, the air quality index (AQI) was 415 in the Anand Vihar area of Delhi– more than eight times the “good” level, according to the Central Pollution Control Board. The weather agency has predicted that the air quality would worsen from Tuesday due to calmer winds and other meteorological conditions. “Experts are predicting that wind speed will fall from Nov. 1 and its direction will change,” Delhi’s environment minister, Gopal Rai, told a news conference on Sunday. Also watch: WION Climate Tracker: New Delhi records 30% less air pollution than last year post Diwali “Based on that, it is being predicted that the AQI would go beyond 400 into the severe category.” He, however, did not further reveal when the restrictions could be lifted. AQI is used as a yardstick to gauge the air quality of a region. The higher the AQI value, the greater the level of air pollution and the greater the health concern A reading of above 400 is considered “severe” that can affect healthy people and seriously impact those with existing illnesses. Every winter season, just after the Diwali festival, the city of over 20 million witnesses the worst air quality as cold and heavy air traps construction dust and vehicle emissions, apart from the smoke emanating out of crop residues that come from the neighbouring Haryana and Punjab states ahead of the new crop season. Also read: Biomass burning rather than firecrackers makes Delhi’s air quality poor, says IIT Delhi study Meanwhile, the Delhi government has formed 586 teams to monitor the construction works, Rai said, adding that hospitals, railways, airports and other such public activities could be exempted from the ban. Moreover, 521 machines have been deployed to sprinkle water across the city to settle dust while nearly 233 anti-smog guns have been dispatched, the minister added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India’s capital Delhi suspends construction activities as air quality set to worsen

India's capital has recorded clean air after Diwali with 30% less air pollution than last year. High wind speed has helped maintain better air quality this year.

WION Climate Tracker: New Delhi records 30% less air pollution than last year post Diwali

While the maximum temperature in the national capital dropped by a notch and settled at 30.7 degree Celsius on Tuesday, its minimum temperature was recorded at 14 degrees Celsius -- two notches below the season's average.

The relative humidity at 8.30 am was recorded at 65 per cent and 49 per cent in the evening, according to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) data.

The weather office had forecast clear skies during the day, with the maximum temperature expected to settle around 31 degrees Celsius.

Meanwhile, the city's air quality on the morning after Diwali stood in the 'very poor' category with its Air Quality Index (AQI) being recorded at 326 at 9.15 am, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. It dropped to 312 at 4.10 pm.

An AQI between zero and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'.

Delhi's AQI had slipped into the 'very poor' category on Monday itself amid increased stubble burning, bursting of firecrackers in many areas and moderately unfavourable meteorological conditions which allowed accumulation of pollutants.

The maximum temperature on Monday was recorded at 31.2 degrees Celsius, a notch below the season's average, whereas the minimum stood at 14.5 degrees Celsius, two notches down.

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While the maximum temperature in the national capital dropped by a notch and settled at 30.7 degree Celsius on Tuesday, its minimum temperature was recorded at 14 degrees Celsius -- two notches below the season's average.

While the maximum temperature in the national capital dropped by a notch and settled at 30.7 degree Celsius on Tuesday, its minimum temperature was recorded at 14 degrees Celsius -- two notches below the season's average. The relative humidity at 8.30 am was recorded at 65 per cent and 49 per cent in the evening, according to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) data. The weather office had forecast clear skies during the day, with the maximum temperature expected to settle around 31 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, the city's air quality on the morning after Diwali stood in the 'very poor' category with its Air Quality Index (AQI) being recorded at 326 at 9.15 am, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. It dropped to 312 at 4.10 pm. An AQI between zero and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'. Delhi's AQI had slipped into the 'very poor' category on Monday itself amid increased stubble burning, bursting of firecrackers in many areas and moderately unfavourable meteorological conditions which allowed accumulation of pollutants. The maximum temperature on Monday was recorded at 31.2 degrees Celsius, a notch below the season's average, whereas the minimum stood at 14.5 degrees Celsius, two notches down. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Delhi's max temperature settles at 30.7 deg C, AQI 'very poor'

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Shockingly out of 195 nations in the world not one country has managed to meet the World Health Organization's air quality standards in the year 2021. A survey of pollution data in more than 6,400 cities across the world shows that the air quality has been worsening with smog even rebounding in certain areas.

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According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in the Indian capital slipped to 368 in the 'very poor' category on Friday morning. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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The PM 10 was recorded at 376 in the 'very poor' category while PM 2.5 was 224 in the 'very poor' category at 7:50 am in the morning. The AQI of 350 and 463 was recorded in Gurugram and Noida respectively in the "very poor" and "severe" categories. &nbsp;

In a bulletin, SAFAR said, "Local surface winds are relatively low for the next three days that reduce the dispersion of pollutants leading to the deterioration of air quality but within the 'upper end of very poor' category." &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-to-reopen-schools-offices-on-nov-29-as-air-quality-improves-marginally-431699" hreflang="en">Delhi to reopen schools, offices on Nov 29 as air quality improves marginally</a>

On November 29, surface winds are likely to increase leading to improvement of air quality but still it may remain within the 'very poor' category, it said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"Local emissions and weather (mixing layer height and wind speed) are likely to be the dominant factors controlling air quality. Effective fire count is 219 and its per cent share in Delhi's PM2.5 is 6 per cent," it added. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in the Indian capital slipped to 368 in the 'very poor' category on Friday morning.

According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in the Indian capital slipped to 368 in the 'very poor' category on Friday morning. Also Read: India has more women than men for the first time, finds government survey The PM 10 was recorded at 376 in the 'very poor' category while PM 2.5 was 224 in the 'very poor' category at 7:50 am in the morning. The AQI of 350 and 463 was recorded in Gurugram and Noida respectively in the "very poor" and "severe" categories. In a bulletin, SAFAR said, "Local surface winds are relatively low for the next three days that reduce the dispersion of pollutants leading to the deterioration of air quality but within the 'upper end of very poor' category." Also Read: Delhi to reopen schools, offices on Nov 29 as air quality improves marginally On November 29, surface winds are likely to increase leading to improvement of air quality but still it may remain within the 'very poor' category, it said. "Local emissions and weather (mixing layer height and wind speed) are likely to be the dominant factors controlling air quality. Effective fire count is 219 and its per cent share in Delhi's PM2.5 is 6 per cent," it added. (With inputs from agencies)

Pollution: Indian capital’s overall air quality slips to 'very poor' category

Schools and offices have been ordered to shut for three days a week as toxic smog chokes the people of Lahore.

The Punjab government announced the closure of private offices and educational institutions in the provincial capital on Mondays, in addition to the weekly holidays observed on Saturdays and Sundays from November 27 till January 15, 2022, according to the Dawn newspaper.

Last week, the Lahore High Court (LHC) had ordered the Punjab government to issue a notification directing private offices in Lahore to halve staff attendance in an effort to tackle smog.

The decision was taken as Lahore continuously topped the list of the world’s most polluted cities, along with India’s national capital territory, Delhi.

On Thursday, Lahore’s air quality index was at 328, much above the hazardous level of 300, according to IQAir. &nbsp;

Lahore was temporarily declared the most polluted city in the world by an air quality monitor, IQAir, earlier on Wednesday.

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AQI values below 100 are considered satisfactory and anything above 100 is unhealthy.

Residents have been complaining of shortness of breath, stinging eyes and nausea as the second-most populous city gasped for fresh air.

Pakistan has witnessed the worst air pollution in recent years from Karachi to Lahore, as a mixture of low-grade diesel fumes, smoke from seasonal crop burn off, and colder winter temperatures coalesce into stagnant clouds of smog.

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Pakistan’s information minister Fawad Chaudhry blamed previous authorities for smog in Lahore.

“We see Lahore engulfed by fog every winter due to the past rulers of the city, who had cut trees for erecting a jungle of concrete there which badly affected the green cover of Lahore and its surroundings,” he&nbsp;said&nbsp;on Saturday.

(With inputs from agencies)

Schools and offices have been ordered to shut for three days a week as toxic smog chokes the people of Lahore. The Punjab government announced the closure of private offices and educational institutions in the provincial capital on Mondays, in addition to the weekly holidays observed on Saturdays and Sundays from November 27 till January 15, 2022, according to the Dawn newspaper.

Schools and offices have been ordered to shut for three days a week as toxic smog chokes the people of Lahore. The Punjab government announced the closure of private offices and educational institutions in the provincial capital on Mondays, in addition to the weekly holidays observed on Saturdays and Sundays from November 27 till January 15, 2022, according to the Dawn newspaper. Last week, the Lahore High Court (LHC) had ordered the Punjab government to issue a notification directing private offices in Lahore to halve staff attendance in an effort to tackle smog. The decision was taken as Lahore continuously topped the list of the world’s most polluted cities, along with India’s national capital territory, Delhi. On Thursday, Lahore’s air quality index was at 328, much above the hazardous level of 300, according to IQAir. Lahore was temporarily declared the most polluted city in the world by an air quality monitor, IQAir, earlier on Wednesday. Also read | Pakistan's Lahore declared world's most polluted city, people choking on acrid smog AQI values below 100 are considered satisfactory and anything above 100 is unhealthy. Residents have been complaining of shortness of breath, stinging eyes and nausea as the second-most populous city gasped for fresh air. Pakistan has witnessed the worst air pollution in recent years from Karachi to Lahore, as a mixture of low-grade diesel fumes, smoke from seasonal crop burn off, and colder winter temperatures coalesce into stagnant clouds of smog. Also read | Air pollution situation 'very serious’ in New Delhi, says India's CJI NV Ramana Pakistan’s information minister Fawad Chaudhry blamed previous authorities for smog in Lahore. “We see Lahore engulfed by fog every winter due to the past rulers of the city, who had cut trees for erecting a jungle of concrete there which badly affected the green cover of Lahore and its surroundings,” he said on Saturday. (With inputs from agencies)

Schools, offices in Pakistan’s Lahore to remain shut three days a week as air turns toxic

Schools, colleges and offices will re-open on November 29 in India’s national capital Delhi, the state’s environment said on Wednesday, as the city’s air quality showed signs of marginal improvement.

Gopal Rai also said that only CNG and electric vehicles, barring those engaged in essential services, will be allowed to enter Delhi from November 27.

The ban on the entry of vehicles operating on other fuels will remain till December 3, he said.

Rai urged government staff to use public transport.

"We hired private CNG buses recently. We have decided to use them to ferry employees from government residential colonies such as Gulabi Bagh and Nimri Colony," he said.

The government will also start a shuttle bus service from the Delhi Secretariat to ITO and Indraprastha metro stations for its employees.

"The air quality has improved over the last three days. The city's AQI is similar to pre-Diwali days," he said.

Schools and other institutes have been shut since November 15 due to ‘severe’ air pollution levels.

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The Directorate of Education had earlier announced that schools, colleges as well as government offices will remain closed till further orders, adding that online education will continue in the meantime.

After nearly 19 months of closure due to the pandemic, Delhi schools reopened for all classes from November 1. But the city government on November 13 ordered the closure of all educational institutions and announced several others measures to combat air pollution and minimise its health effects.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhis-air-quality-in-very-poor-category-says-pollution-board-430816">Delhi's air quality in 'very poor' category, says pollution board</a>

The ban on construction and demolition activities was lifted on Monday in view of an improvement in the air quality and inconvenience caused to workers.

Meanwhile, &nbsp;Delhi's air quality slipped into the "very poor" category on Wednesday as low temperatures and slow surface winds allowed the accumulation of pollutants.

Strong winds on Sunday and Monday had led to an improvement in the air quality.

The Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality monitor SAFAR said slow local surface winds will reduce dispersion of pollutants over the next three days, leading to deterioration in air quality.

A slight improvement is likely from November 27 with an increase in local surface wind speed.

(With inputs from agencies)

Schools, colleges and offices will re-open on November 29 in India’s national capital Delhi, the state’s environment said on Wednesday, as the city’s air quality showed signs of marginal improvement.

Schools, colleges and offices will re-open on November 29 in India’s national capital Delhi, the state’s environment said on Wednesday, as the city’s air quality showed signs of marginal improvement. Gopal Rai also said that only CNG and electric vehicles, barring those engaged in essential services, will be allowed to enter Delhi from November 27. The ban on the entry of vehicles operating on other fuels will remain till December 3, he said. Rai urged government staff to use public transport. "We hired private CNG buses recently. We have decided to use them to ferry employees from government residential colonies such as Gulabi Bagh and Nimri Colony," he said. The government will also start a shuttle bus service from the Delhi Secretariat to ITO and Indraprastha metro stations for its employees. "The air quality has improved over the last three days. The city's AQI is similar to pre-Diwali days," he said. Schools and other institutes have been shut since November 15 due to ‘severe’ air pollution levels. Also read | Red dots over Delhi: Nasa shares satellite images of dangerous pollution levels in Indian capital The Directorate of Education had earlier announced that schools, colleges as well as government offices will remain closed till further orders, adding that online education will continue in the meantime. After nearly 19 months of closure due to the pandemic, Delhi schools reopened for all classes from November 1. But the city government on November 13 ordered the closure of all educational institutions and announced several others measures to combat air pollution and minimise its health effects. Also read | Delhi's air quality in 'very poor' category, says pollution board The ban on construction and demolition activities was lifted on Monday in view of an improvement in the air quality and inconvenience caused to workers. Meanwhile, Delhi's air quality slipped into the "very poor" category on Wednesday as low temperatures and slow surface winds allowed the accumulation of pollutants. Strong winds on Sunday and Monday had led to an improvement in the air quality. The Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality monitor SAFAR said slow local surface winds will reduce dispersion of pollutants over the next three days, leading to deterioration in air quality. A slight improvement is likely from November 27 with an increase in local surface wind speed. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi to reopen schools, offices on Nov 29 as air quality improves marginally

As the vaccination rate increases in the country, India has reported the lowest active Covid cases on Sunday morning. <o:p></o:p>

The Ministry of Health reported that the active cases are currently at 0.39 per cent of the total cases, which is the lowest since March 2020 when the Covid pandemic had started taking over the world.<o:p></o:p>

In addition to this, the recovery rate is also currently at 98.26 per cent, which is the highest since March 2020, as per the officials of Ministry of Health.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/schools-to-be-closed-government-employees-to-work-from-home-delhi-cm-kejriwal-issues-order-on-air-pollution-429040">Schools to be closed, government employees to work from home: Delhi CM Kejriwal issues order on air pollution</a></o:p>

India reported 135,918 active cases on Sunday morning, which is the lowest in the past 522 days (17 months).<o:p></o:p>

A total of 11,271 new Covid infections and 285 coronavirus-related were reported in the past 24 hours in India, taking total case tally to 34,437,307 and death toll to 463,530. Nearly 11,376 people recovered from the deadly virus taking the toll of recoveries to 33,837,859.<o:p></o:p>

In the past 24 hours, nearly 5,743,840 Indians got vaccinated, taking total vaccination number to 1,120,103,225.<o:p></o:p>

Nearly 623,751,344 samples have been tested till November 13, of which 1,255,904 samples were tested on November 13, as per data provided by Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-made-covid-vaccine-covaxin-is-778-effective-says-data-published-in-lancet-journal-428707">India-made Covid vaccine Covaxin is 77.8% effective, says data published in Lancet journal</a></o:p>

Kerala has reported 6,468 new cases and 23 deaths.<o:p></o:p>

While India is successfully battling the Covid pandemic, the country is currently fighting the problem of rising air pollution in some of the major cities of the nation. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in the capital city, New Delhi, is currently at 386 and in the ‘very poor’ category, SAFAR-India claimed.<o:p></o:p>

On November 13, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced a week-long closure of all schools and issued a directive of work-from-home for all government employees. In addition to this, he also ordered all construction activities to be stopped till at least November 17.<o:p></o:p>

"There was a suggestion in the Supreme Court over complete&nbsp;lockdown&nbsp;in Delhi if the pollution situation turns worse. We are drafting a proposal,"&nbsp;CM Kejriwal&nbsp;said, adding, "A&nbsp;proposal will be discussed with agencies and the Centre, if it happens, construction and vehicular movement will have to be stopped."<o:p></o:p>

As the vaccination rate increases in the country, India has reported the lowest active Covid cases on Sunday morning. The Ministry of Health reported that the active cases are currently at 0.

As the vaccination rate increases in the country, India has reported the lowest active Covid cases on Sunday morning. The Ministry of Health reported that the active cases are currently at 0.39 per cent of the total cases, which is the lowest since March 2020 when the Covid pandemic had started taking over the world. In addition to this, the recovery rate is also currently at 98.26 per cent, which is the highest since March 2020, as per the officials of Ministry of Health. Also read | Schools to be closed, government employees to work from home: Delhi CM Kejriwal issues order on air pollution India reported 135,918 active cases on Sunday morning, which is the lowest in the past 522 days (17 months). A total of 11,271 new Covid infections and 285 coronavirus-related were reported in the past 24 hours in India, taking total case tally to 34,437,307 and death toll to 463,530. Nearly 11,376 people recovered from the deadly virus taking the toll of recoveries to 33,837,859. In the past 24 hours, nearly 5,743,840 Indians got vaccinated, taking total vaccination number to 1,120,103,225. Nearly 623,751,344 samples have been tested till November 13, of which 1,255,904 samples were tested on November 13, as per data provided by Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Also read | India-made Covid vaccine Covaxin is 77.8% effective, says data published in Lancet journal Kerala has reported 6,468 new cases and 23 deaths. While India is successfully battling the Covid pandemic, the country is currently fighting the problem of rising air pollution in some of the major cities of the nation. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in the capital city, New Delhi, is currently at 386 and in the ‘very poor’ category, SAFAR-India claimed. On November 13, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced a week-long closure of all schools and issued a directive of work-from-home for all government employees. In addition to this, he also ordered all construction activities to be stopped till at least November 17. "There was a suggestion in the Supreme Court over complete lockdown in Delhi if the pollution situation turns worse. We are drafting a proposal," CM Kejriwal said, adding, "A proposal will be discussed with agencies and the Centre, if it happens, construction and vehicular movement will have to be stopped."

Even as air quality deteriorates, India reports lowest active Covid cases since March 2020

The air quality in Delhi continued to remain in the 'severe' category on Monday (November 8, 2021) for the fourth consecutive day after the festival of Diwali. But, a large part of this is due to an increase in stubble burning related pollutants.

Air quality continues to remain 'severe', days after Diwali in Delhi

After Diwali, people of the India's national capital Delhi, woke up to a lot of smoke and very smoggy dawn. The air quality of the city has significantly worsened once again. WION gets you more.

Delhi's air quality turns 'severe' after Diwali as cracker ban goes up in smoke

It's that time of the year when the Indian capital of New Delhi turns into a gas chamber, the already poor air quality has significantly worsened once again after Diwali. Crackers were burnt despite the blanket ban, the AQI has now entered the severe category, according to the forecasts, the conditions will prevail in the coming days.

Delhi's air quality worsens after Diwali, stubble burning's share in pollution may rise to 35%

It's that time of the year when the Indian capital turns into a gas chamber, the already poor air quality has significantly worsened once again after Diwali. Crackers were burnt despite the blanket ban, the AQI has now entered the severe quality.

Air quality in Delhi worsens to severe category; stubble burning, crackers chokes capital

At the ongoing COP26 summit, countries have been making pledges to phase out the use of coal but the world's biggest polluter China largely remained missing.

Pollution amid rise in coal production, Beijing air quality dips to very serious

It's that time of the year when the Indian capital turns to a gas chamber, the air quality has significantly worsened once again. The average air quality index in New Delhi is 315 which falls in the very poor category.

Delhi's AQI dips, back to breathing toxic air; stubble burning chokes India's capital

With the withdrawal of monsoon, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday informed that pollution has started increasing in the national capital as the air quality index (AQI) surged to 171.

"Pollution has started increasing. 09 October- AQI - 171 (0 to 50 - Good, 51 to 100 - Satisfactory, 101 to 200 - Moderate) PM10 - 197 (0 to 50 - Good, 51 to 100 - Satisfactory, 101 to 250 - Moderate) PM2.5 - 69 (0 to 30 - Good, 31 to 60 - Satisfactory, 61 to 90 - Moderate)," Kejriwal tweeted.

An AQI between 0-50 is marked good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 is moderate, 201- 300 is poor, 301-400 is very poor and 401-500 is considered severe.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/thankful-to-be-here-denmark-pm-meets-pm-modi-on-a-three-day-india-visit-419320">&nbsp;'Thankful to be here': Denmark PM meets PM Modi on a three-day India visit</a>

The Chief Minister has been tweeting Delhi's daily air quality since September 18 and warned that it will deteriorate from mid-October due to stubble burning.

"Delhi air quality will deteriorate from mid-October (stubble burning). State government&nbsp;have not taken action to support their farmers On its own, Delhi air is clean.

On 18 Sep- AQI- 69 (0 to 50 - Good, 51 to 100 - Satisfactory) PM10- 67 PM2.5 - 27 (0 to 30 Good, 31 to 60 Satisfactory)," Kejriwal tweeted on September 18.

In a tweet on Saturday, Kejriwal said that the Haryana government should also help its farmers and make bio-decomposer solution free.

"Haryana government should also help its farmers like Delhi government. Like Delhi, spraying of solution should be made free in all the fields of Haryana. Then there will be no need to burn the stubble," he wrote.

The Delhi government in association with the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa developed a bio-decomposer capsule that can be converted into a solution to be sprayed on crop stubble in the farmlands.

Once sprayed on the fields, the solution decomposes the stubble into compost in 20 days.

Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-quality-index-india-worlds-second-most-polluted-country-415692">&nbsp;Air Quality Index: India world’s second most polluted country</a>

On October 4, Kejriwal announced a 10-point "winter action plan" to tackle air pollution in the national capital.

While making the announcement, he said, "Currently, the air pollution is under control in Delhi but it will start rising with stubble burning in the neighbouring states in winters.

The central government and neighbouring states did not do anything to check stubble burning by farmers which will lead to air pollution in the winter season.

In order to curb the problem of air pollution arising from the Construction and Demolition (C&amp;D) activities in the National Capital Region (NCR), the Commission for Air Quality and Management (CAQM) issued directions to governments of Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and the National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) to set up a 'Web Portal'&nbsp;for monitoring compliance of dust mitigation measures by project proponents.

Keeping in view the dangerous condition of Delhi's air pollution during Diwali for the last three years, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has announced a complete ban on the storage, sale and use of all types of firecrackers.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/12-dead-after-mining-pollution-in-dr-congo-river-410494">12 dead after mining pollution in DR Congo river</a>

There will be a complete ban on the bursting and sale of all kinds of firecrackers up to January 1, 2022, in Delhi, as per the Delhi Pollution Control Committee.

The Delhi government has also launched the 'Advanced Green War Room'&nbsp;and 'Green Delhi App'&nbsp;app for people to send in their complaints into the problems pertaining to 10 kinds of pollution throughout the winter season.

In September this year, the Centre has released Rs 496 crore to subsidize machinery required in-situ management of crop residue with an aim to address air pollution in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) due to stubble burning in the adjoining states of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh.

Sanjay Agarwal, Secretary of Union Ministry of Agriculture had informed that the Centre released Rs 496 crore for Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab to subsidise machinery required in-situ management of crop residue during 2021-22.

With the withdrawal of monsoon, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday informed that pollution has started increasing in the national capital as the air quality index (AQI) surged to 171.

With the withdrawal of monsoon, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday informed that pollution has started increasing in the national capital as the air quality index (AQI) surged to 171. "Pollution has started increasing. 09 October- AQI - 171 (0 to 50 - Good, 51 to 100 - Satisfactory, 101 to 200 - Moderate) PM10 - 197 (0 to 50 - Good, 51 to 100 - Satisfactory, 101 to 250 - Moderate) PM2.5 - 69 (0 to 30 - Good, 31 to 60 - Satisfactory, 61 to 90 - Moderate)," Kejriwal tweeted. An AQI between 0-50 is marked good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101-200 is moderate, 201- 300 is poor, 301-400 is very poor and 401-500 is considered severe. Also Read | 'Thankful to be here': Denmark PM meets PM Modi on a three-day India visit The Chief Minister has been tweeting Delhi's daily air quality since September 18 and warned that it will deteriorate from mid-October due to stubble burning. "Delhi air quality will deteriorate from mid-October (stubble burning). State government have not taken action to support their farmers On its own, Delhi air is clean. On 18 Sep- AQI- 69 (0 to 50 - Good, 51 to 100 - Satisfactory) PM10- 67 PM2.5 - 27 (0 to 30 Good, 31 to 60 Satisfactory)," Kejriwal tweeted on September 18. In a tweet on Saturday, Kejriwal said that the Haryana government should also help its farmers and make bio-decomposer solution free. "Haryana government should also help its farmers like Delhi government. Like Delhi, spraying of solution should be made free in all the fields of Haryana. Then there will be no need to burn the stubble," he wrote. The Delhi government in association with the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa developed a bio-decomposer capsule that can be converted into a solution to be sprayed on crop stubble in the farmlands. Once sprayed on the fields, the solution decomposes the stubble into compost in 20 days. Also Read | Air Quality Index: India world’s second most polluted country On October 4, Kejriwal announced a 10-point "winter action plan" to tackle air pollution in the national capital. While making the announcement, he said, "Currently, the air pollution is under control in Delhi but it will start rising with stubble burning in the neighbouring states in winters. The central government and neighbouring states did not do anything to check stubble burning by farmers which will lead to air pollution in the winter season. In order to curb the problem of air pollution arising from the Construction and Demolition (C&D) activities in the National Capital Region (NCR), the Commission for Air Quality and Management (CAQM) issued directions to governments of Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and the National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) to set up a 'Web Portal' for monitoring compliance of dust mitigation measures by project proponents. Keeping in view the dangerous condition of Delhi's air pollution during Diwali for the last three years, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has announced a complete ban on the storage, sale and use of all types of firecrackers. Also Read | 12 dead after mining pollution in DR Congo river There will be a complete ban on the bursting and sale of all kinds of firecrackers up to January 1, 2022, in Delhi, as per the Delhi Pollution Control Committee. The Delhi government has also launched the 'Advanced Green War Room' and 'Green Delhi App' app for people to send in their complaints into the problems pertaining to 10 kinds of pollution throughout the winter season. In September this year, the Centre has released Rs 496 crore to subsidize machinery required in-situ management of crop residue with an aim to address air pollution in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) due to stubble burning in the adjoining states of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. Sanjay Agarwal, Secretary of Union Ministry of Agriculture had informed that the Centre released Rs 496 crore for Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab to subsidise machinery required in-situ management of crop residue during 2021-22.

Pollution has started increasing, says Delhi CM Kejriwal as air quality index reaches 171

The World Health Organization strengthened its air quality guidelines on Wednesday, saying air pollution was now one of the biggest environmental threats to human health, causing seven million premature deaths a year.

It said urgent action was needed to reduce exposure to air pollution, ranking its burden of disease on a par with smoking and unhealthy eating.

"WHO has adjusted almost all the air quality guideline levels downwards, warning that exceeding the new... levels is associated with significant risks to health," it said.

"Adhering to them could save millions of lives."

The guidelines aim to protect people from the adverse effects of air pollution and are used by governments as a reference for legally-binding standards.

The UN health agency last issued air quality guidelines, or AQGs, in 2005, which had a significant impact on pollution abatement policies worldwide.

However, the WHO said in the 16 years since, a much stronger body of evidence had emerged, showing how air pollution impacts on health at lower concentrations than previously understood.

"The accumulated evidence is sufficient to justify actions to reduce population exposure to key air pollutants, not only in particular countries or regions but on a global scale," the organisation said.

Southeast Asia hard-hit

The new guidelines come just in time for the COP26 global climate summit held in Glasgow from October 31 to November 12.

The WHO said that alongside climate change, air pollution was one of the biggest environmental threats to human health. Improving air quality would enhance climate change mitigation efforts, and vice versa, it said.

The WHO's new guidelines recommend air quality levels for six pollutants, including ozone, nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide and carbon monoxide.

The other two are PM10 and PM2.5 — particulate matter equal or smaller than 10 and 2.5 microns in diameter.

Both are capable of penetrating deep into the lungs but research shows PM2.5 can even enter the bloodstream, primarily resulting in cardiovascular and respiratory problems, but also affecting other organs, said the WHO.

In response, the PM2.5 guideline level has been halved.

In 2019, more than 90 percent of the world's population lived in areas where concentrations exceeded the 2005 AQG for long-term PM2.5 exposure. Southeast Asia is the worst-affected region.

Premature deaths

"Air pollution is a threat to health in all countries, but it hits people in low- and middle-income countries the hardest," said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

The WHO said that while air quality had markedly improved since the 1990s in high-income countries, the global toll in deaths and lost years of healthy life had barely declined, as air quality had generally deteriorated in most other countries, in line with their economic development.

"Every year, exposure to air pollution is estimated to cause seven million premature deaths and result in the loss of millions more healthy years of life," the WHO said.

In children, this could include reduced lung growth and function, respiratory infections and aggravated asthma.

In adults, ischaemic heart disease — also called coronary heart disease — and stroke are the most common causes of premature death attributable to outdoor air pollution.

Evidence is also emerging of other effects such as diabetes and neurodegenerative conditions, the organisation said.

The WHO said the burden of disease attributable to air pollution was "on a par with other major global health risks such as unhealthy diet and tobacco smoking".

The World Health Organization strengthened its air quality guidelines on Wednesday, saying air pollution was now one of the biggest environmental threats to human health, causing seven million premature deaths a year.

The World Health Organization strengthened its air quality guidelines on Wednesday, saying air pollution was now one of the biggest environmental threats to human health, causing seven million premature deaths a year. It said urgent action was needed to reduce exposure to air pollution, ranking its burden of disease on a par with smoking and unhealthy eating. "WHO has adjusted almost all the air quality guideline levels downwards, warning that exceeding the new... levels is associated with significant risks to health," it said. "Adhering to them could save millions of lives." The guidelines aim to protect people from the adverse effects of air pollution and are used by governments as a reference for legally-binding standards. The UN health agency last issued air quality guidelines, or AQGs, in 2005, which had a significant impact on pollution abatement policies worldwide. However, the WHO said in the 16 years since, a much stronger body of evidence had emerged, showing how air pollution impacts on health at lower concentrations than previously understood. "The accumulated evidence is sufficient to justify actions to reduce population exposure to key air pollutants, not only in particular countries or regions but on a global scale," the organisation said. Southeast Asia hard-hit The new guidelines come just in time for the COP26 global climate summit held in Glasgow from October 31 to November 12. The WHO said that alongside climate change, air pollution was one of the biggest environmental threats to human health. Improving air quality would enhance climate change mitigation efforts, and vice versa, it said. The WHO's new guidelines recommend air quality levels for six pollutants, including ozone, nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide and carbon monoxide. The other two are PM10 and PM2.5 — particulate matter equal or smaller than 10 and 2.5 microns in diameter. Both are capable of penetrating deep into the lungs but research shows PM2.5 can even enter the bloodstream, primarily resulting in cardiovascular and respiratory problems, but also affecting other organs, said the WHO. In response, the PM2.5 guideline level has been halved. In 2019, more than 90 percent of the world's population lived in areas where concentrations exceeded the 2005 AQG for long-term PM2.5 exposure. Southeast Asia is the worst-affected region. Premature deaths "Air pollution is a threat to health in all countries, but it hits people in low- and middle-income countries the hardest," said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. The WHO said that while air quality had markedly improved since the 1990s in high-income countries, the global toll in deaths and lost years of healthy life had barely declined, as air quality had generally deteriorated in most other countries, in line with their economic development. "Every year, exposure to air pollution is estimated to cause seven million premature deaths and result in the loss of millions more healthy years of life," the WHO said. In children, this could include reduced lung growth and function, respiratory infections and aggravated asthma. In adults, ischaemic heart disease — also called coronary heart disease — and stroke are the most common causes of premature death attributable to outdoor air pollution. Evidence is also emerging of other effects such as diabetes and neurodegenerative conditions, the organisation said. The WHO said the burden of disease attributable to air pollution was "on a par with other major global health risks such as unhealthy diet and tobacco smoking".

Air pollution kills 7 million people per year, estimates WHO;  issues new guidelines

All Indian cities showed air quality improvements in 2020 owing to the Covid-19 impact compared to 2018, while 63 per cent saw improvements compared to 2019, said the 2020 World Air Quality Report on Tuesday that is based on PM2.5 data from 106 countries. 
 
In 2020, around 84 per cent of all monitored countries observed air quality improvements, largely due to global measures to slow the spread of COVID-19. 
 
Air quality improvements across major cities in 2020 compared to 2019 include Beijing (minus 11 per cent) Chicago (minus 13 per cent), Delhi (minus 15 per cent), London (minus 16 per cent), Paris (minus 17 per cent) and Seoul (minus 16 per cent). 
 
However, India continues to feature prominently at the top of the most polluted cities ranking, with 22 of the top 30 most polluted cities globally. 
 
The report by IQAir said in 2020, 86 per cent of the cities in China experienced cleaner air than the previous year. 
 
Despite this, Chinese residents are still exposed to PM2.5 levels more than three times the World Health Organization (WHO) annual guidelines. Hotan in northwestern China ranks as the world`s most polluted city, largely due to sandstorms exacerbated by climate change. 
 
Only 24 out of 106 monitored countries met the WHO annual guidelines for PM2.5 in 2020. 
 
The report says climate change continues to affect air quality. The year 2020 is tied with 2016 as the hottest year on record. Wildfires and sandstorms fueled by the warming climate led to extremely high pollution levels in California, South America, Siberia and Australia. 
 
South Asia is the most polluted region of the world with Bangladesh, India and Pakistan sharing 42 of the 50 most polluted cities worldwide. 
 
In 2020, about half of all European cities exceed the WHO`s target for annual PM2.5 pollution. The highest levels of PM2.5 pollution was found in Eastern and Southern Europe, with Bosnia Herzegovina, North Macedonia and Bulgaria taking the lead. 
 
"The year 2020 brought an unexpected dip in air pollution. In 2021, we will likely see an increase in air pollution due to human activity, again," said Frank Hammes, CEO of IQAir. 
 
"We hope this report will highlight that urgent action is both possible and necessary to combat air pollution, which remains the world`s greatest environmental health threat." 
 
"While many cities recorded temporary improvements in air quality due to lockdowns, the health impact of burning fossil fuels remained severe. Unfortunately, Delhi continued to be the most polluted capital city in the world in 2020. To see real, long-term improvements in air quality, governments must prioritize clean energy sources such as wind and solar and promote low cost, carbon neutral and accessible transport," said Avinash Chanchal, Climate Campaigner, Greenpeace India. 
 
"Many parts of the world experienced unprecedented, but short-lived, improvements in air quality in 2020, as restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic caused a steep drop in fossil fuel consumption," said Lauri Myllyvirta, lead analyst at the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), who also contributed to the report. 
 
"This improved air quality meant tens of thousands of avoided deaths from air pollution. By transitioning to clean energy and clean transport we can realize the same improvements in a sustained way."

All Indian cities showed air quality improvements in 2020 owing to the Covid-19 impact compared to 2018, while 63 per cent saw improvements compared to 2019, said the 2020 World Air Quality Report on Tuesday that is based on PM2.

All Indian cities showed air quality improvements in 2020 owing to the Covid-19 impact compared to 2018, while 63 per cent saw improvements compared to 2019, said the 2020 World Air Quality Report on Tuesday that is based on PM2.5 data from 106 countries. In 2020, around 84 per cent of all monitored countries observed air quality improvements, largely due to global measures to slow the spread of COVID-19. Air quality improvements across major cities in 2020 compared to 2019 include Beijing (minus 11 per cent) Chicago (minus 13 per cent), Delhi (minus 15 per cent), London (minus 16 per cent), Paris (minus 17 per cent) and Seoul (minus 16 per cent). However, India continues to feature prominently at the top of the most polluted cities ranking, with 22 of the top 30 most polluted cities globally. The report by IQAir said in 2020, 86 per cent of the cities in China experienced cleaner air than the previous year. Despite this, Chinese residents are still exposed to PM2.5 levels more than three times the World Health Organization (WHO) annual guidelines. Hotan in northwestern China ranks as the world`s most polluted city, largely due to sandstorms exacerbated by climate change. Only 24 out of 106 monitored countries met the WHO annual guidelines for PM2.5 in 2020. The report says climate change continues to affect air quality. The year 2020 is tied with 2016 as the hottest year on record. Wildfires and sandstorms fueled by the warming climate led to extremely high pollution levels in California, South America, Siberia and Australia. South Asia is the most polluted region of the world with Bangladesh, India and Pakistan sharing 42 of the 50 most polluted cities worldwide. In 2020, about half of all European cities exceed the WHO`s target for annual PM2.5 pollution. The highest levels of PM2.5 pollution was found in Eastern and Southern Europe, with Bosnia Herzegovina, North Macedonia and Bulgaria taking the lead. "The year 2020 brought an unexpected dip in air pollution. In 2021, we will likely see an increase in air pollution due to human activity, again," said Frank Hammes, CEO of IQAir. "We hope this report will highlight that urgent action is both possible and necessary to combat air pollution, which remains the world`s greatest environmental health threat." "While many cities recorded temporary improvements in air quality due to lockdowns, the health impact of burning fossil fuels remained severe. Unfortunately, Delhi continued to be the most polluted capital city in the world in 2020. To see real, long-term improvements in air quality, governments must prioritize clean energy sources such as wind and solar and promote low cost, carbon neutral and accessible transport," said Avinash Chanchal, Climate Campaigner, Greenpeace India. "Many parts of the world experienced unprecedented, but short-lived, improvements in air quality in 2020, as restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic caused a steep drop in fossil fuel consumption," said Lauri Myllyvirta, lead analyst at the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), who also contributed to the report. "This improved air quality meant tens of thousands of avoided deaths from air pollution. By transitioning to clean energy and clean transport we can realize the same improvements in a sustained way."

India's air quality improved in 2020, claims report

Delhi`s overall air quality entered the `moderate` category on Tuesday as the city`s Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 173, according to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

Yesterday, the national capital had recorded an AQI of 269, in the `poor` category. Areas near Lodhi Road (183), Pusa Road (166) reported moderate air quality today. An AQI between 0-50 is marked good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101- 200 is moderate, 201- 300 is poor, 301-400 is very poor and 401-500 is considered severe.

"The overall Delhi air quality is in the Moderate category. Surface winds are east-northeasterly and moderate. Lower-level winds are likely to be easterly-northeasterly for the next three days. A marginal decrease in surface winds is forecasted for the next 24 hrs. AQI is likely to marginally deteriorate but in the higher end of the Moderate to Poor category for the next two days. An increase in dust concentration is likely in the coming days," informed SAFAR.

Meanwhile, as per the Regional Meteorological Department in Delhi, the maximum temperature can go up to 32 degree Celsius.

"A partly cloudy sky with mist in the morning" is likely in Delhi as per the Meteorological Department.Thunderstorm with light to moderate intensity rain is also likely in Delhi and nearby areas. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) also informed in a tweet: "Thunderstorm with light to moderate intensity rain would occur over adjoining areas of isolated places of West, North, Southwest Delhi, Jhajjar, Bawal during next 2 hours."&nbsp;

Delhi`s overall air quality entered the `moderate` category on Tuesday as the city`s Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 173, according to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

Delhi`s overall air quality entered the `moderate` category on Tuesday as the city`s Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 173, according to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). Yesterday, the national capital had recorded an AQI of 269, in the `poor` category. Areas near Lodhi Road (183), Pusa Road (166) reported moderate air quality today. An AQI between 0-50 is marked good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101- 200 is moderate, 201- 300 is poor, 301-400 is very poor and 401-500 is considered severe. "The overall Delhi air quality is in the Moderate category. Surface winds are east-northeasterly and moderate. Lower-level winds are likely to be easterly-northeasterly for the next three days. A marginal decrease in surface winds is forecasted for the next 24 hrs. AQI is likely to marginally deteriorate but in the higher end of the Moderate to Poor category for the next two days. An increase in dust concentration is likely in the coming days," informed SAFAR. Meanwhile, as per the Regional Meteorological Department in Delhi, the maximum temperature can go up to 32 degree Celsius. "A partly cloudy sky with mist in the morning" is likely in Delhi as per the Meteorological Department.Thunderstorm with light to moderate intensity rain is also likely in Delhi and nearby areas. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) also informed in a tweet: "Thunderstorm with light to moderate intensity rain would occur over adjoining areas of isolated places of West, North, Southwest Delhi, Jhajjar, Bawal during next 2 hours."

Delhi's air quality improves, enters 'moderate' category

The air quality of the national capital remained in the `moderate` category on Wednesday due to high surface winds.

This will, however, slow down on Thursday leading to deterioration.

Delhi's air quality index stood at 186 micrograms per cubic meter. AQI within the limit of 0-5 is regarded as good, 51-100 satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 very poor and 401-500 is considered severe.

A sharp decline in air pollution has brought a sigh of relief for the residents of the national capital. On February 27, the city had recorded poor quality of air, with the index mounting to 211, thereafter the AQI has been moderate.

"Surface winds are high and forecasted to slow down for tomorrow. AQI is forecasted to marginally deteriorate tomorrow," stated the Ministry of Earth Sciences`s System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research.

The air quality is likely to marginally improve thereafter and the poor to moderate category is forecasted on March 5 and 6.

The officials have advised sensitive people to consider reducing prolonged or heavy exertion and take it easy if symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath occur.

Residents of Delhi`s neighbouring regions — Ghaziabad and Greater Noida are breathing poor quality of air. Faridabad, Gurugram and Noida have logged moderate category of air.

The air quality of the national capital remained in the `moderate` category on Wednesday due to high surface winds. This will, however, slow down on Thursday leading to deterioration.

The air quality of the national capital remained in the `moderate` category on Wednesday due to high surface winds. This will, however, slow down on Thursday leading to deterioration. Delhi's air quality index stood at 186 micrograms per cubic meter. AQI within the limit of 0-5 is regarded as good, 51-100 satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 very poor and 401-500 is considered severe. A sharp decline in air pollution has brought a sigh of relief for the residents of the national capital. On February 27, the city had recorded poor quality of air, with the index mounting to 211, thereafter the AQI has been moderate. "Surface winds are high and forecasted to slow down for tomorrow. AQI is forecasted to marginally deteriorate tomorrow," stated the Ministry of Earth Sciences`s System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research. The air quality is likely to marginally improve thereafter and the poor to moderate category is forecasted on March 5 and 6. The officials have advised sensitive people to consider reducing prolonged or heavy exertion and take it easy if symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath occur. Residents of Delhi`s neighbouring regions — Ghaziabad and Greater Noida are breathing poor quality of air. Faridabad, Gurugram and Noida have logged moderate category of air.

Delhi's air quality 'moderate' due to high surface winds

The average air quality was 'very poor' in Greater Noida and 'poor' in Ghaziabad, Noida, Faridabad and Gurgaon on Sunday, according to a 24-hour data provided by a government agency. Pollutants PM 2.5 and PM 10 remained prominent in the air of the five immediate neighbours of Delhi, according to the air quality index (AQI) maintained by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

An AQI between zero and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'. The average 24-hour AQI at 4 pm on Sunday was 280 in Ghaziabad, 311 in Greater Noida, 239 in Noida, 251 in Faridabad and 215 in Gurgaon, according to CPCB's Sameer app. On Saturday, the AQI was 348 in Ghaziabad, 360 in Greater Noida, 346 in Noida, 311 in Faridabad and 230 in Gurgaon.

According to the CPCB, an AQI in the 'very poor' category may cause respiratory illness on prolonged exposure, while prolonged exposure to 'poor' quality air may cause breathing discomfort to most people. The AQI for each city is based on the average value of all stations there.

Ghaziabad and Gurgaon have three such stations while Noida, Greater Noida and Faridabad have two stations each, according to the app.

The average air quality was 'very poor' in Greater Noida and 'poor' in Ghaziabad, Noida, Faridabad and Gurgaon on Sunday, according to a 24-hour data provided by a government agency.

The average air quality was 'very poor' in Greater Noida and 'poor' in Ghaziabad, Noida, Faridabad and Gurgaon on Sunday, according to a 24-hour data provided by a government agency. Pollutants PM 2.5 and PM 10 remained prominent in the air of the five immediate neighbours of Delhi, according to the air quality index (AQI) maintained by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). An AQI between zero and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'. The average 24-hour AQI at 4 pm on Sunday was 280 in Ghaziabad, 311 in Greater Noida, 239 in Noida, 251 in Faridabad and 215 in Gurgaon, according to CPCB's Sameer app. On Saturday, the AQI was 348 in Ghaziabad, 360 in Greater Noida, 346 in Noida, 311 in Faridabad and 230 in Gurgaon. According to the CPCB, an AQI in the 'very poor' category may cause respiratory illness on prolonged exposure, while prolonged exposure to 'poor' quality air may cause breathing discomfort to most people. The AQI for each city is based on the average value of all stations there. Ghaziabad and Gurgaon have three such stations while Noida, Greater Noida and Faridabad have two stations each, according to the app.

Air quality in National Capital Region remains 'very poor'

National capital`s air quality remained in the severe category for the third consecutive day on Thursday as calm winds and low ventilation halted the dispersion of accumulated pollutants. 
 
Delhi`s air quality index stood at 425 micrograms per cubic meter in severe category at noon. On Wednesday, the air quality index was 433 micrograms per cubic meter and 418 micrograms per cubic meter the previous day. 
 
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), 28 out of 36 pollution monitoring stations in Delhi showed severe air quality index reading. Nehru Nagar, Anand Vihar, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium and R.K. Puram areas of the national capital have the most noxious air, inching towards emergency levels. 
 
The System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), which comes under the aegis of the Ministry of Earth Sciences said the calm wind, cold conditions and low ventilation has halted the dispersion of the accumulated pollutants. 
 
"Surface-level winds are calm and forecasted to pick up and AQI is likely to improve during the day. Better ventilation condition is forecasted for the next two days. Hence, AQI is forecasted to improve to the higher end of the very poor category by 25th December," the weather forecasting agency said. 
 
Delhi`s neighbouring regions -- Ghaziabad, Faridabad, Noida and Greater Noida recorded `severe` quality of air, leaving aside Gurugram which has slightly better AQI at 375 micrograms per cubic meter. Greater Noida and Noida have the most polluted air amongst all at 455 and 447 micrograms per cubic meter. 
 
Nationwide, as many as 12 cities have very poor air quality. Uttar Pradesh`s Greater Noida and Noida top the charts, followed by Faridabad and Delhi. Aizawl city of Mizoram recorded the cleanest air in the country at 27 micrograms per cubic meter. 
 
SAFAR has issued a stringent warning, asking everyone to avoid physical activity outdoors and consult a doctor if they experience unusual coughing, chest discomfort, wheezing, breathing difficulty, or fatigue and wear masks known as N-95 or P-100 respirators. 
&nbsp;

National capital`s air quality remained in the severe category for the third consecutive day on Thursday as calm winds and low ventilation halted the dispersion of accumulated pollutants.

National capital`s air quality remained in the severe category for the third consecutive day on Thursday as calm winds and low ventilation halted the dispersion of accumulated pollutants. Delhi`s air quality index stood at 425 micrograms per cubic meter in severe category at noon. On Wednesday, the air quality index was 433 micrograms per cubic meter and 418 micrograms per cubic meter the previous day. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), 28 out of 36 pollution monitoring stations in Delhi showed severe air quality index reading. Nehru Nagar, Anand Vihar, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium and R.K. Puram areas of the national capital have the most noxious air, inching towards emergency levels. The System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), which comes under the aegis of the Ministry of Earth Sciences said the calm wind, cold conditions and low ventilation has halted the dispersion of the accumulated pollutants. "Surface-level winds are calm and forecasted to pick up and AQI is likely to improve during the day. Better ventilation condition is forecasted for the next two days. Hence, AQI is forecasted to improve to the higher end of the very poor category by 25th December," the weather forecasting agency said. Delhi`s neighbouring regions -- Ghaziabad, Faridabad, Noida and Greater Noida recorded `severe` quality of air, leaving aside Gurugram which has slightly better AQI at 375 micrograms per cubic meter. Greater Noida and Noida have the most polluted air amongst all at 455 and 447 micrograms per cubic meter. Nationwide, as many as 12 cities have very poor air quality. Uttar Pradesh`s Greater Noida and Noida top the charts, followed by Faridabad and Delhi. Aizawl city of Mizoram recorded the cleanest air in the country at 27 micrograms per cubic meter. SAFAR has issued a stringent warning, asking everyone to avoid physical activity outdoors and consult a doctor if they experience unusual coughing, chest discomfort, wheezing, breathing difficulty, or fatigue and wear masks known as N-95 or P-100 respirators.

Delhi's air quality remains severe for third consecutive day

The national capital Delhi will experience "very poor" air quality in the next two days, an India Meteorological Department official said on Friday.

Kuldeep Srivastava, Head, IMD's regional weather forecasting Centre in Delhi said that the stubble burning has decreased significantly and increased pollution level is mainly due to local vehicle emission and industrial pollution.

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He said national capital will experience "very poor" air quality in the coming two days.

"In the last two days, wind speed has decreased significantly and is in a transition stage from easterly to northerly. From Monday again there will be a slight improvement in air quality," he said.

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Particulate Matter (PM) 10 level in Delhi was 348 on Friday whereas PM 2.5 was at 203, which rests in very poor and poor category respectively, according to System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

National Green Tribunal (NGT) has asked municipal corporations and local bodies in NCR, where air quality levels are normally non-compliant, and in other cities with "poor" category or worse air quality to take steps for ensuring sprinkling of water before sweeping of roads.

The national capital Delhi will experience "very poor" air quality in the next two days, an India Meteorological Department official said on Friday. Kuldeep Srivastava, Head, IMD's regional weather forecasting Centre in Delhi said that the stubble burning has decreased significantly and increased pollution level is mainly due to local vehicle emission and industrial pollution.

The national capital Delhi will experience "very poor" air quality in the next two days, an India Meteorological Department official said on Friday. Kuldeep Srivastava, Head, IMD's regional weather forecasting Centre in Delhi said that the stubble burning has decreased significantly and increased pollution level is mainly due to local vehicle emission and industrial pollution. Also read| India's Covid-19 caseload rises to 95,71,559 with 36,594 new infections in last 24 hours He said national capital will experience "very poor" air quality in the coming two days. "In the last two days, wind speed has decreased significantly and is in a transition stage from easterly to northerly. From Monday again there will be a slight improvement in air quality," he said. Also read| Delhi: Covid positivity rate drops below 5 per cent for first time since Oct 7 Particulate Matter (PM) 10 level in Delhi was 348 on Friday whereas PM 2.5 was at 203, which rests in very poor and poor category respectively, according to System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). National Green Tribunal (NGT) has asked municipal corporations and local bodies in NCR, where air quality levels are normally non-compliant, and in other cities with "poor" category or worse air quality to take steps for ensuring sprinkling of water before sweeping of roads.

Delhi to experience very poor air quality for next two days, says IMD official

As winter begins to set in the country, the air quality index in Delhi-NCR dipped to 999 meaning "severe&nbsp;category" on Wednesday.

The deteriorating air quality index comes over a week ahead of Diwali when the capital experiences greater health hazard amid the festive season.

The fall in air quality index comes amid reports of stubble burning in neighbouring states of Delhi-NCR.

In fact, the air quality in the national capital has remained in the 'very poor' category during the week, according to data released by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

On Tuesday, the AQI index of Delhi was 371 according to CPCB with areas around ITO, Pragati Maidan and Commonwealth Games village worst affected.

According to CPCB guidilines, an AQI between 0-50 is marked "good", 51-100 is categories as "satisfactory", 101-200 is marked "moderate", 201-300 is "poor", 301-400 is "very poor" and 401-500 is considered "severe".

As winter begins to set in the country, the air quality index in Delhi-NCR dipped to 999 meaning "severe category" on Wednesday. The deteriorating air quality index comes over a week ahead of Diwali when the capital experiences greater health hazard amid the festive season.

As winter begins to set in the country, the air quality index in Delhi-NCR dipped to 999 meaning "severe category" on Wednesday. The deteriorating air quality index comes over a week ahead of Diwali when the capital experiences greater health hazard amid the festive season. The fall in air quality index comes amid reports of stubble burning in neighbouring states of Delhi-NCR. In fact, the air quality in the national capital has remained in the 'very poor' category during the week, according to data released by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). On Tuesday, the AQI index of Delhi was 371 according to CPCB with areas around ITO, Pragati Maidan and Commonwealth Games village worst affected. According to CPCB guidilines, an AQI between 0-50 is marked "good", 51-100 is categories as "satisfactory", 101-200 is marked "moderate", 201-300 is "poor", 301-400 is "very poor" and 401-500 is considered "severe".

Before Diwali, Delhi's air quality index turns 'severe' as winter settles in

Delhi residents did not get any respite from air quality even on Monday as the air quality of the national capital in the early hours was again in the "very poor" category.&nbsp;

People of Delhi complained of difficulty in breathing as they went out for exercising on Monday amid the haze. &nbsp;

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"The pollution is becoming hazardous," said Mukul Diwan, a local, as quoted by news agency Reuters.&nbsp;

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Delhi's air quality index (AQI) was 343 at 10 am on Monday, which comes under the category of "very poor".&nbsp;

SAFAR, the Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality monitor, said the direction and speed of the wind are favourable for the transport of the pollutants from farm fires in Haryana, Punjab, and other regions adjacent to Delhi.

For the last few years with the arrival of winter, Delhi and other northern Indian regions witness a sharp drop in air quality majorly due to stubble burning, which is done to do away farm residues.&nbsp;

Also, the cold weather let the pollutants hang in the air due to which air pollution rises.&nbsp;

Delhi is already battling a coronavirus crisis and the pollution can worsen the situation as the deadly virus confronts the respiratory system.&nbsp;

A few weeks ago, a report by a central government institute said that Delhi could see 15,000 Covid-19 cases per day in the upcoming winter season.&nbsp;

Delhi residents did not get any respite from air quality even on Monday as the air quality of the national capital in the early hours was again in the "very poor" category.

Delhi residents did not get any respite from air quality even on Monday as the air quality of the national capital in the early hours was again in the "very poor" category. People of Delhi complained of difficulty in breathing as they went out for exercising on Monday amid the haze. Also read | India: Coronavirus infections near 80 million; daily death toll lowest in three months "The pollution is becoming hazardous," said Mukul Diwan, a local, as quoted by news agency Reuters. Also read | US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo arrives in New Delhi Delhi's air quality index (AQI) was 343 at 10 am on Monday, which comes under the category of "very poor". SAFAR, the Ministry of Earth Sciences' air quality monitor, said the direction and speed of the wind are favourable for the transport of the pollutants from farm fires in Haryana, Punjab, and other regions adjacent to Delhi. For the last few years with the arrival of winter, Delhi and other northern Indian regions witness a sharp drop in air quality majorly due to stubble burning, which is done to do away farm residues. Also, the cold weather let the pollutants hang in the air due to which air pollution rises. Delhi is already battling a coronavirus crisis and the pollution can worsen the situation as the deadly virus confronts the respiratory system. A few weeks ago, a report by a central government institute said that Delhi could see 15,000 Covid-19 cases per day in the upcoming winter season.

'Very poor' air continues to trouble Delhi residents

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