Delhi struggles with air quality as spending on clean air program lags behind

Air pollution in Delhi-NCR has worsened significantly after Diwali, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeding 400 in many areas, indicating hazardous conditions. Gurugram and Noida also reported severe air quality levels. Delhi ranks among the lowest in fund spending under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), with 68% of its funds unspent. In contrast, Ghaziabad utilized 89% of its funds, while Noida used only 11%. A recent report highlighted serious issues in NCAP's implementation, including incomplete studies and poor progress on pollution reduction targets. The Central Pollution Control Board reported that 11 of Delhi's monitoring stations recorded AQI levels over 400. The Meteorological Department forecasts continued smog until at least November 10, complicating efforts to improve air quality.