India

Delhi’s Air Quality Plummets To ‘Very Poor’ Category Amid Smog Concerns

On Thursday, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported that air quality in the national capital is worsening, with recent measurements showing a concerning Air Quality Index (AQI) of 336 as of 7:30 AM.

This figure places Delhi firmly within the ‘very poor’ category, which encompasses AQI values between 301 and 400.

Monitoring stations throughout the city, including those at ITO, Mandir Marg, and Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, have reported similar alarming AQI readings.

Other affected areas include Vivek Vihar, Anand Vihar, Burari Crossing, Wazirpur, Pusa, Nehru Nagar, Jahangirpuri, RK Puram, Loni, and Sirifort.

Experts warn that air quality may further decline throughout the day, potentially reaching the ‘severe’ category in certain locales where AQI values approach 400.

Meanwhile, according to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the troubling conditions come on the heels of a thick layer of smog that enveloped the Delhi-NCR region on Wednesday, with the AQI hitting 349.

This marks a stark continuation of the ‘very poor’ air quality that has plagued the region.

Air Quality Remains A Concern Despite GRAP Stage 2 Efforts

Despite the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) activating the second stage of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to combat the rising pollution levels, residents continue to face significant health risks.

The GRAP Stage 2 implementation restricts the use of coal and firewood, including in restaurants and open eateries, as well as bans diesel generator sets except for emergency services.

Tuesday’s reports revealed a 24-hour AQI of 327 at 4 PM, indicating a worrying trend from the previous day’s 310.

Increased AQI levels signify worsening air quality and heightened pollution.

As winter approaches, Delhi faces the annual smog crisis, leading to increased pollution levels that pose grave health concerns.

With the GRAP measures now in effect, authorities are under pressure to ensure compliance and mitigate the adverse effects of air pollution on the capital’s residents.

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Mankrit Kaur