A thick blanket of toxic smog enveloped Delhi and surrounding cities in the National Capital Region on Thursday, severely impacting flight and train operations. The hazardous air quality has led to a spike in respiratory complaints, with hospitals reporting a continuous increase in patients suffering from pollution-related ailments. The average air quality index (AQI) exceeded 400, signifying ‘severe’ levels, with Patparganj recording the highest AQI of 470 (‘severe plus’) at 11 a.m., according to the Central Pollution Control Board’s Sameer app.

Residents, like Bhayender, noted disruptions in their daily lives due to the worsening pollution. “The pollution levels have surged. We are experiencing breathing problems and eye irritation. Activities like running, which we used to enjoy, have become impossible,” he told ANI.

Raunak, a school student, expressed frustration at the lack of collective action. “I run daily, but the increased pollution has caused continuous coughing, which may affect my lungs. Controlled pollution and more CNG-based vehicles could help, but there is no public cooperation,” he remarked.

Dr. Arvind Kumar, a specialist in Chest Onco Surgery and Lung Transplantation at Medanta Hospital, highlighted the severe health impact. “It’s the same story, year after year,” he said, criticizing government inaction. “Breathing in such polluted air chokes your throat… ICUs are now filled with patients suffering from various forms of pneumonia. Pediatricians’ clinics are overwhelmed with children having breathing difficulties. In many households, both children and adults are coughing,” Dr. Kumar added.