Delhi Continues to Choke Under Thick Haze as AQI Remains ‘Very Poor’ Despite GRAP-III Restrictions

Delhi woke up to a thick haze on Wednesday morning with the Air Quality Index reaching ‘Very Poor’ levels. Despite ongoing restrictions, major areas recorded high pollution readings. The arrival of volcanic ash from Ethiopia is not expected to worsen air quality immediately as the ash remains in the upper atmosphere. As temperatures drop, a dense haze covered Delhi, with an AQI of 337 at 7 am, falling in the ‘Very Poor’ category. Landmarks like India Gate, Ghazipur, and AIIMS showed worrying readings, while South Extension and Bawana hit high pollution levels. GRAP Stage III restrictions have resulted in marginal improvements but challenges persist.