Air quality in the national capital worsened significantly on Sunday, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 352, placing it in the 'very poor' category, according to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). This marks a decline from Saturday’s average AQI of 255, which was classified as 'poor.'

In particular, the Anand Vihar area experienced even worse conditions, as its AQI surged past 400, recording a level of 405 at 7 AM, categorized as 'severe.' The AQI at the Akshardham Temple was noted at 261, while Indira Gandhi International Airport registered an AQI of 324, both falling under the 'very poor' category. A thick layer of smog blanketed various parts of the city, further exacerbating the pollution issue.

Visitors to the capital voiced their concerns about the deteriorating air quality. Himanshu, a local, described the pollution as "suffocating," urging the government to take more effective measures to combat it.

A cyclist, who rides regularly in Delhi, expressed frustration over the pollution's impact on their health. "We cycle daily, but the air quality has made it increasingly difficult to breathe. We tire more quickly due to the pollution. We try to protect ourselves by wearing bandanas, but it doesn’t seem to help as the pollution worsens," he told ANI. He also suggested that the government should promote public transport and carpooling to alleviate the situation.

As the festival of lights approaches, the Delhi government has implemented a ban on firecrackers until January 1 in an effort to reduce pollution levels. Additionally, toxic foam on the Yamuna River in the Kalindi Kunj area remains a concern. This issue has sparked political debate between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), with BJP leader Shazia Ilmi criticizing the Delhi government for its inadequate response to the escalating pollution crisis, particularly highlighting the hazardous foam in the river and the associated health risks for residents.

Ilmi pointed out, “BJP leader Virendra Sachdeva fell ill after taking a dip in the Yamuna and is now hospitalized. This situation directly impacts the health of Delhi’s citizens. Where has the ₹3,000 crore allocated for public welfare and the Yamuna gone? The people of Delhi are struggling to breathe, and toxic foam continues to float in the river.”

In response, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai accused the BJP of contributing to the pollution problems. “The BJP creates pollution and seems to believe that drama is the solution. All parties must work together to address this issue. I have reached out to the BJP President regarding the winter action plan but have received no feedback or suggestions,” he stated.