Delhi Overtakes Lahore as World's Most Polluted City with AQI Reaching 1000

New Delhi has left Pakistan's Lahore behind to become the world's most polluted city, according to a recent ranking by Swiss group IQAir. The air quality index (AQI) scores in the Indian capital reached an alarming level of 1000, which is considered "hazardous" and far beyond the acceptable limits.

On Wednesday morning, Delhi was blanketed with a thick layer of smog, reducing visibility to mere meters, and causing flight cancellations and diversions. Authorities swiftly took action to divert several flights, including eight, as a precautionary measure in response to the hazardous conditions.

The situation began to improve after 10 AM, but the rapid increase in pollution levels at 7 AM from 355 to 370 was staggering, with PM2.5 emissions breaching the 1000 mark for the first time this year. The National Capital Region is known to suffer from severe smog conditions every winter, mainly due to farm fires and year-round emissions.

Government measures in the past have included shutting schools, imposing restrictions on private vehicles, and halting construction activities. However, despite such efforts, pollution levels continue to deteriorate.

As of now, Delhi has taken over Lahore's title as the world's most polluted city, prompting calls for immediate action to address this pressing issue affecting thousands of residents' health.