Delhi and Mumbai Face Severe Winter Smog with Alarmingly Poor Air Quality

Published: November 13, 2024

As winter approaches, Delhi and Mumbai are having very bad air pollution, which makes it very hard to see and breathe. Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) has hit scary highs, with some areas showing “Severe” air quality. Even though Mumbai is a little better, it is still covered in smog, which makes daily life harder.

The air quality in different parts of Delhi has been rated as “Very Poor” to “Severe.” At 7 a.m. on Wednesday, November 13, 20241, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) said the AQI was 355. At 8:30 am, thick smog made it so that no one could see from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI). Loco pilots have to slow down trains because they can’t see as well in the smog, which makes it harder for trains to move.

#WATCH | A layer of smog engulfs the area around India Gate as the Air Quality Index (AQI) across Delhi continues to be in the ‘Very Poor’ category in several areas as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). pic.twitter.com/fysBenqUqL

— ANI (@ANI) November 13, 2024

Table of Contents

Mumbai’s Struggle with Smog

Mumbai’s air quality, though not as severe as Delhi’s, has also been impacted. The AQI in Mumbai was 138, and there was smog in many parts of the city. Coastal areas and important roads have been hit the hardest, making it hard for residents and commuters to get around.

Health Implications

Severe air pollution poses significant health risks, especially for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. Long-term exposure to dirty air can cause lung infections, asthma attacks, and other major health problems.

Government and Public Response

The air quality problem has been dealt with by the governments of both cities. As part of the efforts in Delhi, the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is being put into place. With this plan, there will be less building work and less use of diesel generators. Also, the odd-even car scheme will begin. Not only that, but Mumbai has also been doing things, like making it illegal to burn trash and telling people to take the bus.

Things are not going well right now, but there is hope that they will get better. The CPCB and city governments are always keeping an eye on things and doing things to clean up the air. It’s also important to work together to cut down on waste and run campaigns to make people aware of the issue.

To stay healthy this winter, people need to make sure they do the right things. Masks, air filters, and staying inside during times of high pollution can help you be less exposed to dangerous air. People and the government must both keep trying to make the world a better place for everyone.