Delhi air worsens after Diwali, AQI crosses 400 in 15 areas
New Delhi: Delhi’s air quality recorded a sharp decline after Diwali fireworks. Dense smog covered several parts of the capital on Monday morning and pollution levels reached the severe category. According to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data, Delhi’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 368 at 7 am, while it crossed 400 at 15 monitoring stations.
Among the areas most affected by pollution were Burari Crossing and Sonia Vihar, where the AQI reached 441. Vivek Vihar recorded 437, Delhi Technological University 434 and Jahangirpuri 433. Rohini recorded 430 and Bawana 424. According to CPCB standards, an AQI between 301 and 400 is considered very poor, while 401 to 500 falls in the severe category.
According to experts, smoke and fine particles released from firecrackers further increased the pollution already present in the air. Vehicular emissions, industrial emissions, smoke from stubble burning and adverse weather conditions are also contributing to the deterioration of air quality. Due to low wind speed, pollutants are accumulating in the atmosphere.
Dense smog also affected visibility in several areas in the morning. In view of the decline in air quality, restrictions under the third stage of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) are already in force in Delhi-NCR. Under this, additional control measures are being taken on construction activities and pollution-causing sources.
During this spell of pollution, children, the elderly and people suffering from respiratory illnesses need to take special precautions.
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