Delhi’s air quality continued to deteriorate on Monday morning, remaining firmly in the ‘very poor’ category, with the city-wide Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 397 at 6 a.m., according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Of the 39 air-quality monitoring stations across Delhi, 20 reported AQI readings above 400, falling into the ‘severe’ zone, while the remaining 19 stations recorded AQI between 300 and 400, placing them in the ‘very poor’ category. The capital has now recorded ‘very poor’ air quality for 18 near-consecutive days since November 6, with three days—November 11 to 13—crossing into the ‘severe’ category. A combination of winter onset, low wind speeds, falling temperatures, and farm fires following Diwali in October has kept the city’s air under severe distress.
The highest AQI readings on Monday morning were recorded at Vivek Vihar and Rohini (both 458), followed by Jahangirpuri (455), Wazirpur (448), and Delhi Technological University (DTU) at 444.
On Sunday, the 24-hour average AQI at 4 p.m. stood at 391—still in the ‘very poor’ zone—compared to 370 at the same time on Saturday and 364 on Friday, according to CPCB data.
The persistent toxic smog has raised serious health concerns, with residents reporting a sharp rise in respiratory, eye-related, and lung-related ailments. Medical professionals have repeatedly warned of the dangers, prompting authorities to implement measures under Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), even as conditions have at times warranted Stage 4 restrictions.
Protest at India Gate turns chaotic
On Sunday evening, a group of citizens gathered at India Gate to protest the deteriorating air quality and its impact on public health. What began as a demonstration soon escalated into chaos when some protesters allegedly used chilli powder/pepper spray on police personnel who were attempting to clear the area.
Officials said the protesters had assembled near the C-Hexagon, blocking the passage of ambulances and other emergency vehicles. Police attempted to reason with the demonstrators, explaining that the blockade was preventing medical personnel and emergency vehicles from passing through.
“We tried to explain to them that emergency vehicles were stuck and needed clear access, but they refused to move. The situation then turned into a scuffle, and some protesters used chilli powder on our personnel, which is unusual and rare,” a senior police officer said.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (New Delhi) Devesh Kumar Mahla described the incident as highly unusual: “This was very unusual. For the first time, protesters used pepper spray on officers managing traffic and law and order.”
Also Read: Delhi schools ban outdoor activities amid worsening air pollution
Several police personnel were sprayed in the eyes and face and were subsequently taken to Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital for treatment.
“This was very unusual. For the first time, protestors used pepper spray on officers managing traffic and law and order,” DCP Mahla said. “A few of our officers were sprayed in the eyes and face and are currently receiving treatment at RML Hospital. Legal action is being taken in this regard,” he added.
The protesting group issued a statement saying, “When the state makes the air itself poisonous, it becomes necessary for people to unite and raise their voices for their own survival.” Authorities confirmed that legal action will be initiated against those responsible for the use of chilli spray on police personnel.
Also Read: Delhi air turns 'severe,' AQI crosses 400 amid choking pollution
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