Delhi-NCR woke up to a dense layer of smog, with air quality plummeting as the AQI exceeded 300, entering the ‘very poor’ zone. Residents are once again facing health challenges brought on by severe pollution levels.

Smog Season

Despite the gravity of the situation, Delhi’s annual smog season always sparks a wave of activity on social media. This year, residents are mixing humor with frustration as they discuss the city’s worsening air quality. One entrepreneur quipped, “That time of the year. When Delhi/NCR’s skies turn smog grey. And WA groups buzz with heated debates on what causes it. Both are annual rituals on our yearly calendar.”

Health Concerns Amid the Humor

While humor provides some relief, many have shared their health struggles. “These smoggy mornings and my throat do not like each other. Delhi and Delhiites suffer every year from this smog in the festive season,” a resident posted, highlighting the strain on those with respiratory issues.

Rising Frustration Over Pollution

Voicing their frustrations, some have used the moment to call attention to the neglect of pollution control efforts. “Let’s play a sobering game: Never have I ever breathed fresh air in Delhi NCR. With #AQI soaring beyond 300, it’s not just smog we’re choking on—it’s neglect,” one person remarked, expressing the feelings of many across the capital.

Smog-Covered Streets Captured on Camera

A video shared by PTI showcased the heavy smog blanketing parts of Delhi, particularly around the Akshardham area. The caption read, “A thick layer of smog envelops parts of Delhi as the AQI level dips,” providing a visual reminder of the deteriorating air quality.

VIDEO | A thick layer of smog envelops parts of Delhi as the AQI level dips. Visuals from the Akshardham area.

(Full video available on PTI Videos – https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/gT9fE7ffHz

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) October 23, 2024

As the pollution season drags on, residents remain caught between humor and concern, hoping for lasting change.

Government Steps in with New Measures

In light of the alarming air quality, the government has initiated additional measures to combat pollution. Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai stated, “The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has established four levels to control pollution. Currently, the Air Quality Index (AQI) is above 300, which has led to the implementation of GRAP Stage II.” He added that water spraying would be increased across Delhi, and stricter inspections of construction sites would continue.