India’s capital is smothering as Air pollution surges

 New Delhi May 16,2025: On Thursday , Delhi , the capital of India woke up to a thick haze as the air quality level again dropped into the “ very poor “ category, thereby surging concerns over public health and environmental management.

As per the reports of Central Pollution Control Board ( CPCB), the city recorded an average AQI (Air Quality Index) of 301 by Thursday evening which falls under the “ very poor category on the AQI scale . Numerous Areas of the city including Anand Vihar ,Ashok Vihar and Aya nagar reported higher levels of AQI readings which is 352,322 and 333 respectively.

On the other hand , AAP ( Aam Aadmi Party) posted on X ( twitter) that “ In the month of May itself, Delhi-NCR was covered in a blanket of pollution. In the month of May itself, AQI has crossed 500 in many areas of Delhi-NCR, and dust and poisonous air are spread in the air. This has never happened before. There are BJP governments in Delhi and all the surrounding states, but no BJP government is doing any work to reduce pollution."

Simultaneously,A news report shared on the alarming AQI levels by Arvind Kejriwal , an AAP National Convenor on 'X' ( twitter) that “Air pollution was never this bad during the AAP regime at this time of the year."

In contrast ,Manjinder Singh Sirsa , a minister of Delhi Government slam Ex Delhi Chief Minister Atishi after the latter asserted that the AQI had hit 500 on Thursday morning.

Mr sirsa further augmented on Minister Atishi statement and said that the malady Aam Aadmi Party government gave in the last 10 years were being rectified by BJP . This argument triggered a sharp exchange between the two parties .

To remain cautious about air pollution, Authorities have advised the residents, particularly vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory problems to minimise outdoor activities and wear masks when stepping outside. Schools have received advisories, and construction activities in certain areas may be subject to temporary restrictions if the pollution levels continue to stay. 

The Delhi government has reaffirmed its commitment to enforce the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) and has appealed public to contribute to pollution control efforts by opting for public transport , reducing private vehicle usage , and avoiding burning waste.

With the monsoon season still weeks away, experts warn that the situation could detoriate further unless prompt and coordinated action are implemented .