New Delhi: The National Capital is grappling with two major crises: worsening air quality and a water shortage in various parts of Delhi. The Air Quality Index (AQI), which has plunged into the "severe" category, remains a significant concern. Additionally, high ammonia levels in the Yamuna River may exacerbate water shortages in Delhi.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) Crisis

The average AQI of Delhi was recorded at 406, categorised as "severe," as of 4 PM on Monday (December 23). Furthermore, the AQI in key areas of the national capital also fell within the "severe" category, as of 6 am on Tuesday (December 24):
Anand Vihar: AQI 422 ("severe")
Alipur: AQI 421 ("severe")
Ashok Vihar: AQI 440 ("severe")
Aya Nagar: AQI 370 ("very poor")
In other areas, AQI levels fluctuated between the "very poor" and "severe" categories as of 6 AM on Tuesday, December 24.
A light drizzle in the national capital yesterday failed to improve AQI levels significantly. On Sunday (December 22), after several days of "very poor" AQI, the national capital's air quality deteriorated further into the "severe" category.

Delhi's Water Crisis

In addition to worsening air quality, Delhi is also facing a water shortage. According to a PTI report, high ammonia levels in the Yamuna River at the Wazirabad pond are causing disruptions in water supply. The Delhi Jal Board (DJB) has announced that it will rationalise water supply by reducing production by 5–10 per cent at other plants until the situation improves.
An official statement from the DJB revealed that ammonia concentrations exceeding 5.0 ppm have significantly reduced water production at the Wazirabad Water Treatment Plant, which is currently operating at 25–50 per cent below capacity.
"Due to the continuous inflow of high pollutants in the Yamuna River at the Wazirabad pond, the Delhi Jal Board is rationalizing water supply. Water production will be reduced by 5–10% at the Haiderpur Phase-I, Phase-II, Bawana, and Dwarka WTPs until the situation improves," the statement said, as quoted by PTI.
The statement also urged residents to use water judiciously. Water tankers are being made available upon request, and residents can contact the Central Control Room for assistance, the PTI report added.
(With PTI inputs)