Thick layer of smog blankets Delhi, air quality dips to 'severe' category

New Delhi, Nov 04 (ANI): The air quality of national capital took a hit due to a combination of firecracker emissions, stubble burning and unfavourable meteorological conditions in past few weeks. A thick layer of smog blankets the area of Rajpath in Delhi on November 04. According to the Air Quality Index (AQI) data and System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), major pollutants in Delhi's Lodhi Road area were PM 2.5 at 500 and PM 10 at 500 both in 'severe' category. On November 01, the Supreme Court-mandated Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA) declared public health emergency in Delhi due to rising air pollution levels. As per Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data, the AQI in ITO area is at 434 which reflects 'severe' category. Higher value of AQI indicates greater level of air pollution and health concern. Residents have complained of a spike in respiratory problems, allergies and other health issues. The stubble burning in