Spot check raises doubts on accuracy of AQI data

NEW DELHI: As smog thickens in Delhi and people complain of burning eyes, scratchy throats and breathing problems, are the official air quality monitors accurately reflecting the capital's air quality? A ground check by TOI at several stations found glaring inconsistencies and questionable practices that may be influencing readings. At Anand Vihar - a pollution hot spot - the area around the monitoring unit was being repeatedly doused with water using high-pressure hoses. The practice, officials on site said, was part of routine dust suppression. Experts said such measures can distort readings. At Dilshad Garden, the AQI was in 'poor' zone but better than most other spots in the afternoon. The station is deep in a forested patch of a medical institute - covered by trees and away from t