Rajasthan City on Delhi’s Border Turns into a Gas Chamber: AQI Soars to 344, Breathing Becomes a Daily Struggle

Bhiwadi, the industrial hub of Rajasthan located on the outskirts of Delhi-NCR, has once again plunged into a severe air pollution crisis, virtually turning into a gas chamber. According to data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Air Quality Index (AQI) touched 344 on Friday morning, placing the city firmly in the ‘Very Poor’ category.

With Delhi and the entire NCR already under GRAP-4 restrictions, the deteriorating air quality has had a direct and alarming impact on public health in Bhiwadi. Residents are struggling to breathe, and hospitals are witnessing a sharp surge in patients suffering from respiratory distress.

Hospitals Overwhelmed, Every Third Patient Has Breathing Issues

Local health officials report that more than 1,000 patients are visiting hospitals daily, and every third patient is complaining of breathing-related problems, including asthma attacks, chest congestion, eye irritation and persistent cough. Children, the elderly and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions are the worst affected.

The worsening situation has pushed the district administration and pollution control authorities into alert mode, prompting immediate restrictions to prevent further deterioration.

Administration Imposes Strict Restrictions

In response to the critical air quality levels, the administration has issued strict directives, including:

• Complete ban on open burning of garbage
• Mandatory dust-control measures at construction sites
• Strict action against uncovered construction material and debris transportation
• Instructions to industrial units to operate strictly within prescribed emission norms, with warnings of penal action for violations

Officials have made it clear that non-compliance will invite stringent action, including fines and closure of units.

Doctors Advise Extreme Caution

According to Dr. Nitesh Yadav from Bhiwadi Hospital, an AQI level of 344 poses a serious health risk.
“Children, senior citizens and respiratory patients must take special precautions. Avoid stepping outdoors unless absolutely necessary, wear masks, and limit physical activities, especially in highly polluted zones,” he advised.

The Pollution Control Board has intensified monitoring of air quality in the region, and authorities have warned that even stricter measures may be enforced if conditions fail to improve.

Pollution Becoming a Permanent Challenge

Experts attribute Bhiwadi’s worsening air quality to a combination of intense industrial activity, rising vehicular load and continuous construction work. The situation is further aggravated whenever pollution levels spike in Delhi-NCR, directly impacting the border town.

Voices from the Ground

Local residents say the past few days have been particularly distressing.
“There is constant difficulty in breathing and severe irritation in the eyes. Living here has become extremely difficult,” said residents, urging the government to take urgent and long-term corrective measures.

Pollution Control Officer Speaks

Amit Jural, Regional Pollution Control Officer, Bhiwadi, stated that continuous efforts are being made to curb pollution.
“Whenever pollution increases in Delhi-NCR, its impact is immediately visible in Bhiwadi. We have imposed fines exceeding ₹30 lakh on violating companies and sealed several factories. Awareness campaigns are also being conducted regularly,” he said.

A Collective Responsibility

As Bhiwadi chokes under toxic air, authorities stress that controlling pollution is not just an administrative task but requires active public participation. Without sustained efforts from industries, residents and enforcement agencies alike, the city risks facing an even graver environmental and public health crisis.