In Pictures: Thick Smog Blankets Delhi as AQI Soars Past 560

Delhi woke up to a dense, choking layer of smog today morning, as the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) shot up to 566 at 7 a.m., placing it firmly in the “hazardous” category. Major parts of the capital were blanketed in thick haze, drastically reducing visibility on roads and affecting morning traffic (Source: Photo by PTI)

According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board, several monitoring stations in Delhi, including Anand Vihar, Jahangirpuri, and RK Puram, recorded AQI readings between 550 and 650 — levels considered dangerous for all age groups (Source: Photo by PTI)

Officials from the India Meteorological Department attributed the worsening air quality to calm surface winds, high humidity, and smoke carried from stubble burning in neighboring Punjab and Haryana, which trapped pollutants over the city (Source: Photo by PTI)

The thick smog layer extended across the NCR region, with Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram, and Faridabad also registering “severe” air quality levels, while early-morning commuters reported difficulty driving due to extremely low visibility (Source: Photo by PTI)

Health authorities in Delhi advised residents to stay indoors as much as possible, avoid outdoor exercise, and wear N95 masks if stepping out. Hospitals reported a spike in patients complaining of throat irritation and breathing discomfort (Source: Photo by PTI)

In response to the worsening conditions, Delhi’s Environment Department extended the Stage IV GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) measures, which include bans on construction activity, restrictions on diesel vehicles, and advice for schools to consider closures (Source: Photo by PTI)

Despite emergency measures, weather experts warned that air quality is unlikely to improve significantly before the next western disturbance brings strong winds (Source: Photo by PTI)