Delhi's air quality remains 'poor' for second consecutive day
What's the story
Delhi's air quality continues to remain in the poor category for the second consecutive day on Saturday. The Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 257 at 8:00am on October 25, days after Diwali celebrations triggered a spike in smog and pollution. On Friday, the overall 24-hour average AQI was recorded at 275 at 4:00pm by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Regional impact
Air quality in neighboring cities
Within the National Capital Region (NCR), Sector 51 of Gurugram recorded an AQI of 330, while Faridabad and Ghaziabad's Indirapuram recorded AQIs of 229 and 300, respectively. Noida's AQI stood at 307, with Meerut recording an AQI of 263. Major NCR areas continue to witness poor air quality, with some areas experiencing very poor conditions.
Market response
Surge in demand for air purifiers, masks
Amid the poor air quality, Delhi residents are rushing to buy air purifiers and masks. Traders have reported a 60-70% surge in sales of these products, according to news agency PTI. The city witnessed a slight improvement in air quality on Thursday but a layer of smog still lingered in the morning.
Health advisory
Health risks posed by pollution
Doctors have also cautioned about the serious health risks posed by the pollution. Former AIIMS Director Dr Randeep Guleria advised residents to take preventive measures against exposure. Speaking to ANI, he said, "The current high levels of air pollution...are leading to acute health effects, particularly among individuals with underlying heart or lung conditions, the elderly, and young children."
Weather update
Doctors advise residents to limit outdoor activities
The city also recorded its lowest minimum temperature in October in two years on Thursday night. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) recorded a nighttime temperature of 17 degrees Celsius, slightly below normal (0.2 degrees) for this time of year. In light of the persistent pollution, doctors have advised residents to limit outdoor activities to essentials until air quality improves to at least moderate levels.