The air quality of Delhi plunged into the severe category on Tuesday and may further deteriorate to the severe plus category today.
A respite from dangerous air pollution levels is not likely for the next two days and a “slight improvement” is expected only by Friday, said System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR).
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Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data shows that at 6.40am, the average air quality index (AQI) of Delhi reached 457. On Tuesday, the overall AQI of the city at 4pm was recorded 425.
Severe air quality can cause respiratory problems in healthy people and has a serious impact on people with lung or heart diseases.
People should avoid outdoor physical activities, skip morning walks and close room windows.
SAFAR said in an advisory to “Stop any activity if you experience any unusual coughing, chest discomfort, wheezing, breathing difficulty or fatigue and consult a doctor.”
The contribution of stubble burning in neighbouring States to Delhi’s pollution was 25% on Tuesday, up from 18% on Monday.
The air quality has deteriorated due to low wind speed, cloudy conditions, low mixing height and an increase stubble burning, said authorities.
