India’s Capital Faces Smog Crisis as Rivers Choke on Foam
by Ekta ChaubeyA thick layer of toxic foam covered the surface of the Yamuna River in northern India’s Delhi intensifying concerns over pollution amidst a severe smog wave.
The incident was reported from Kalindi Kunj area of New Delhi district on November 23.
Visuals showed a grim scene—dense foam floated across a vast stretch of the river, shrouded in early morning smog. Amidst the hazardous conditions, trains continued operating on the railway bridge, while vehicles commuted on adjacent bridges, exposing commuters to harmful pollutants.
According to reports, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi was recorded at 420 at 9 a.m., falling under the ‘severe’ category. The Regional Meteorological Centre noted a temperature of 13°C with 97% humidity at 8:30 a.m., exacerbating pollution levels.
Experts from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) highlight that AQI in the ‘severe’ range (401–500) poses health risks even to healthy individuals and significantly impacts those with existing respiratory or cardiac issues. Extended exposure to AQI levels in the ‘very poor’ range (301–400) can also lead to respiratory illnesses.
The alarming visuals and data have intensified calls for immediate action to mitigate the environmental and public health crisis.