Delhi’s air pollution crisis continues unabated, with the air quality index (AQI) remaining in the “very poor” category for the sixth straight day on Friday. At 7 a.m., the capital’s average AQI stood at 332, while several areas exceeded the ‘severe’ mark of 400, further intensifying health concerns.
The air pollution crisis has extended to other cities in the National Capital Region (NCR). Official data reveals alarming AQI levels in various locations: Greater Noida at 272, Ghaziabad at 258, Noida at 249, Gurugram at 258, and Faridabad at 166. These numbers reflect unhealthy conditions, affecting millions of residents across the region.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) categorizes AQI levels into six bands:
As pollution levels soared, Delhi also experienced its coldest night of the season on Thursday, with the minimum temperature dipping to 10.1 degrees Celsius, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
In response to the pollution crisis, the Supreme Court directed the enforcement of Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)-IV measures, excluding those affecting schools, until the next hearing on December 2.
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The court criticized lapses in the implementation of GRAP-4 guidelines and warned officials of strict action for non-compliance. It emphasized the need for stringent enforcement to tackle the worsening air quality.
While restrictions on physical classes remain lifted, the court refused to ease measures under GRAP-3 or GRAP-2 until AQI levels show consistent improvement. It also directed state governments to utilize labour cess funds to assist construction workers affected by the ongoing construction ban.
Under GRAP-4, several measures have been implemented:
As Delhi and its neighboring cities battle hazardous air quality, authorities face mounting pressure to implement lasting solutions. With stringent restrictions and court directives in place, all eyes are on government efforts to alleviate the pollution crisis while safeguarding public health.
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