New Delhi, November 25: Delhi’s air quality remained mired in the “very poor” category on Monday, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) touching 397 at 6 a.m., as stagnant winds and falling temperatures trapped pollutants over the capital, official data showed. Twenty of the city’s 39 monitoring stations recorded readings above 400, placing them in the “severe” zone.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) said pollution levels have hovered in the “very poor” range for nearly three consecutive weeks since Nov. 6, with three “severe” days recorded from Nov. 11 to 13. The city’s worst pollution readings on Monday came from Vivek Vihar and Rohini (AQI 458), followed by Jahangirpuri (455), Wazirpur (448) and Delhi Technological University (444).
Delhi’s 24-hour average AQI stood at 391 on Sunday evening, up from 370 on Saturday and 364 on Friday. Doctors have reported a spike in respiratory and ocular complaints as toxic smog continues to blanket the city, prompting authorities to invoke measures under Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan.
A protest over the worsening air quality turned chaotic on Sunday evening after some demonstrators allegedly used chilli spray on police personnel near India Gate while being removed from the area. Police said the group had gathered near the C-Hexagon, obstructing ambulances and emergency vehicles.
“We tried to explain that emergency vehicles needed access, but they refused to move. A scuffle broke out, and some protesters used chilli powder on our personnel, which is highly unusual,” a senior police officer said.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) Devesh Kumar Mahla said several officers suffered irritation to their eyes and face and were treated at RML Hospital. “This is the first time we have seen protesters use pepper spray on officers managing traffic and law and order,” he said.
Police said legal action is being taken against those involved in the incident.
