Delhi AQI 'very poor' for the first time this year: Tips to survive it

Delhi's air quality slipped into the 'very poor' category for the first time this season on Monday, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recording 312 at 9 am, while the minimum temperature at the Safdarjung weather station settled at 16.4 degrees Celsius, 1.1 notches above normal. The minimum temperatures at other weather stations were recorded at 16.4 degrees Celsius at Palam, 16.8 degrees at Lodhi Road, 17.2 degrees at the Ridge and 16.7 degrees at Ayanagar, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

The AQI reading of 312 is the morning reading and not the day's average, which will be available at 4 pm, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). According to the CPCB, an AQI between zero and 50 is considered 'good', 51 and 100 'satisfactory', 101 and 200 'moderate', 201 and 300 'poor', 301 and 400 'very poor', and 401 and 500 'severe'. Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage 2 is applied in Delhi when the Air Quality Index (AQI) enters the "Very Poor" category, ranging between 301 and 400.

How to survive the air pollution?
Government agencies, renowned doctors and health portals have brought out a couple of simple tips that can be implemented to stay healthy and survive Delhi's severe air pollution. Here are a few of them:
a) Stay indoors during heavy traffic hours between 6 am and 10 am, and 5 pm and 9 pm.
b) Do not exercise outdoors

c) While going out, use N95 or N99 masks, which can filter the fine PM2.5 particulate matter.
d) Use air purifiers in bedrooms and living spaces. Keep windows and doors shut during early morning and late evening hours.
e) Eat foods rich in Vitamins C, E and Omega-3 fatty acids. Hydrate yourself well. Take steam inhalation for airway relief.
f) Do not dry broom your home; use only wet mopping.

Emergency numbers
• Delhi Pollution Control Committee Violations/Info: 1800-11-0007
• Medical Emergencies / Ambulance: 102
• AIIMS Emergency: 011-2658-8500
(With PTI inputs)