Delhi bathed in dust, norms openly flouted

Delhi Bathed in Dust, Norms Openly Flouted

The Vagabond News – November 6, 2025

Delhi woke up on Thursday under a suffocating blanket of dust and smog, as pollution levels once again soared off the charts. Despite repeated warnings from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and the enforcement of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), construction dust, vehicle emissions, and open burning continued unabated across the city.

Visibility Dips, AQI Breaches ‘Severe’ Category

By mid-morning, the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossed 450 in several areas including Anand Vihar, Jahangirpuri, and Dwarka — officially placing Delhi in the “severe” category. The skyline was barely visible, and residents reported eye irritation and breathing difficulties.

“It feels like we are breathing through a wall of sand,” said Rohit Sharma, a resident of South Delhi, as he cycled through the haze.

Construction Ban Ignored

Despite a citywide construction ban ordered under GRAP Stage IV, inspectors found multiple ongoing projects continuing work in Noida, Dwarka, and East Delhi. Concrete mixers, uncovered trucks, and piles of dust-lined debris remained visible across sites, with enforcement officials reportedly understaffed and uncoordinated.

Environmental activists slammed authorities for allowing the situation to spiral.

“It’s the same story every year — rules exist only on paper,” said Anumita Roychowdhury of the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE).

Hospitals Report Spike in Respiratory Cases

Hospitals in the NCR region have reported a surge in patients complaining of throat infections and asthma-related issues. Safdarjung Hospital recorded a 20% increase in respiratory emergency cases within 48 hours. Doctors are urging citizens, especially children and the elderly, to remain indoors.

Government’s Response

The Delhi government announced that all schools will remain shut until further notice and that the odd-even vehicle rule may be reimposed if pollution levels persist. However, enforcement on ground remains patchy.

“If we can stop construction and traffic violations even for a week, Delhi’s air can improve dramatically,” said a senior CPCB official.

A Capital Gasping for Air

The dust episode comes amid an ongoing stubble burning crisis in neighboring Punjab and Haryana, compounding local emissions. Satellite data released by SAFAR indicated over 2,000 active fire spots in northern India contributing to the worsening air quality.

As the haze thickens and masks return to the streets, Delhi stands as a grim reminder of India’s struggle to balance urban growth with environmental survival.

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Reported by The Vagabond News Environment Desk

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