New Delhi: Air pollution levels in Delhi-NCR are continuing to worsen. On Wednesday, the capital’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 377, which falls in the very poor category. In several areas, however, pollution levels crossed 450. In view of the situation, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has continued the measures implemented under the second stage of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). According to weather and pollution-related forecasts, Delhi’s air is likely to reach the severe category by Friday.
According to Central Pollution Control Board data, the AQI at IIT Delhi was recorded at 455 on Wednesday. It was 449 in Jahangirpuri, 446 in Punjabi Bagh, 439 in Mundka, 436 in Vivek Vihar and 432 in Rohini. At ITO too, the Air Quality Index reached 411. Due to low wind speed and moisture in the atmosphere, pollutants are accumulating close to the ground.
CAQM has also taken a strict view of stubble-burning incidents. The commission has issued show-cause notices to the district magistrates (DCs) and senior superintendents of police (SSPs) of Barnala, Bathinda, Fazilka, Jalandhar and Faridkot in Punjab. The commission has sought replies over the lack of effective control on stubble-burning incidents and shortcomings in compliance with directions. Earlier, notices had also been issued to officials in Gurdaspur and Kapurthala.
Several precautionary measures, including curbs on dust from construction and demolition activity, have been implemented in Delhi-NCR to control pollution. From 5 to 20 November, outdoor construction work that generates dust will remain prohibited. Government and private offices in Delhi and five NCR districts have also been directed to operate with 50 percent of employees working from office and the rest working from home.
The administration has appealed to citizens to follow pollution-control guidelines and avoid unnecessary use of vehicles.
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