The air quality crisis in Delhi is getting worse. Many places in the city have very high pollution levels. The air quality index (AQI) is a number that tells us how clean or dirty the air is. In Delhi, it has reached a very bad level, near 450. The highest recorded level is 441, and the average is 383. This is a big problem as winter is coming, and the air pollution is expected to get even worse.

On a recent Thursday morning, 16 weather stations reported AQI levels above 400, which is very unhealthy. By evening, seven more areas joined this list. A thick layer of smog covered many parts of Delhi. The Indian Meteorological Department says that mist and smog will stay for a while. This rise in pollution is happening during the time of the Chhat Puja celebration. This festival requires people to spend a lot of time outside, which means they are breathing in this bad air.
The Effects of Chhat Puja on Air Quality
During the Chhat Festival, many people spend time near the Yamuna River. Sadly, the river is also very polluted. The surface of the water is covered with thick, toxic foam. Experts warn that this is very dangerous for the health of people, especially those who want to take holy baths as part of the festival. The pollution in the Yamuna has reached alarming levels, crossing 650 parts per million (PPM).

Health Risks from Poor Air Quality
There is a serious concern regarding air quality in major Indian cities. A study from the Lancet has shown that bad air quality is linked to many deaths. This study looked at ten big cities, including Delhi, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai, Pune, Shimla, and Varanasi. It found that about 33,000 deaths each year are connected to air pollution levels that are above what the World Health Organization (WHO) considers safe.
However, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) disagrees with this study. They said that the data may not be completely correct. The CPCB explained that air pollution is just one factor that affects health. Other things, like what we eat, where we work, and our medical history, also play a big role in how healthy a person is.
Why Is Air Quality So Bad in Delhi?
There are many reasons why Delhi’s air quality is so poor. One big reason is the weather. As winter comes, cooler temperatures trap more pollutants in the air. This makes it harder for the air to clear out. The use of fireworks during festivals also adds to the pollution. Other factors include vehicle emissions, construction dust, and burning waste.

What Can Be Done?
It is essential for everyone to take steps to improve air quality. Here are some actions that can help:
- Use Public Transport: Instead of driving cars, people can use buses and trains. This will reduce the number of vehicles on the road.
- Plant Trees: Trees help clean the air. Planting more trees can improve air quality.
- Stay Indoors: On days when the air quality is very poor, it is better to stay inside as much as possible.
- Check Air Quality: People should regularly check the AQI to know when it is safe to go outside.

Conclusion
Delhi is facing a serious air quality crisis. It is important for everyone to be aware of the situation and take action. Poor air quality affects everyone’s health. By working together, we can help improve the air we breathe.
In summary, the air pollution problem in Delhi is urgent and needs attention. With the winter season approaching, it is crucial for people to understand the risks and take steps to protect their health and the environment.