New Delhi: The air quality in Delhi and the wider NCR region turned more hazardous on Tuesday as a thick layer of smog reduced visibility and pushed pollution levels to dangerous highs. Several areas in Delhi and nearby Ghaziabad recorded air quality readings in the severe range, raising health concerns for residents.

Early in the morning, many neighbourhoods in Delhi registered AQI levels above 400. Localities such as Wazirpur, Bawana and Jahangirpuri recorded some of the highest readings. The overall air quality index for the city stood in the very poor category, showing only minor improvement from the previous day but still far from safe.

Conditions deteriorated further in Ghaziabad, where pollution levels rose to hazardous levels. Real time data showed several monitoring stations with AQI numbers above 400, with some places reporting extremely high concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10 particles. These pollution levels pose serious health risks even for healthy individuals.

Weather conditions worsened the situation as colder air and low wind speed trapped pollutants close to the ground. The smog cover made morning visibility poor and caused discomfort among commuters. Forecasts indicated that the region may not see immediate relief, and pollution levels could remain high over the next couple of days.

Authorities have already enforced the strictest measures under the graded response plan to control emissions. Restrictions on construction activities, industrial operations and vehicular movement have been tightened. Health advisories urge people to limit outdoor activities, wear protective masks and keep indoor air clean.

Winter months are known for recurring pollution spikes in Delhi and NCR due to a mix of weather patterns, dust, vehicle emissions and crop residue burning in neighbouring states. With the pollution season at its peak, residents are bracing for continued tough conditions.