As winter descends upon Northern India, air quality in Noida has taken a dramatic turn for the worse, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) doubling in just one day. On October 27, 2024, Noida's AQI soared to 304, categorizing the air quality as 'very poor', up from a previous reading of 169. This alarming spike marks the first time this season that all cities in the National Capital Region (NCR) are reporting 'very poor' air quality [889ffd6f].
Officials from the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board, including DK Gupta, have attributed the worsening air quality in part to pollution from neighboring Pakistan, specifically citing stubble burning as a significant contributor. Stagnant winds have further exacerbated the situation, trapping pollutants in the atmosphere and leading to deteriorating air quality across the region [889ffd6f].
In contrast, Delhi has seen a slight improvement in its AQI, which now stands at 264, though it still falls within the 'very poor' category. Despite this marginal improvement, health risks remain a pressing concern, especially with the festive season of Diwali approaching, which typically sees an increase in firecracker usage and further pollution [889ffd6f].
The ongoing air quality crisis in Noida and the broader NCR area is part of a larger pattern of environmental challenges faced by Indian cities, particularly during the winter months. As authorities scramble to address these issues, residents are advised to take precautions to protect their health, including wearing masks and limiting outdoor activities [661e889].
This situation underscores the urgent need for coordinated efforts to tackle air pollution, which has been a persistent problem in India, with many cities consistently ranking among the worst globally for air quality [0499294d].
