Delhi records worst air in 287 days, AQI crosses 350
New Delhi: Air pollution levels in the national capital Delhi are continuing to rise. On Tuesday, the city’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 350, the worst level in the past 287 days. In Jahangirpuri in north-west Delhi, the AQI reached 462, leaving the area in the grip of severe pollution. Air quality in several other parts of the capital was also recorded as very poor.
According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board, air quality at 10 of Delhi’s 57 monitoring stations was in the severe category on Tuesday, while 35 stations recorded very poor conditions and 12 stations recorded poor air quality. On Monday, Delhi’s average AQI was 324. Pollution levels therefore rose further within a single day.
In view of the pollution situation, Stage 2 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) has been in force in Delhi-NCR since Monday. Measures under it include mechanised road cleaning, water sprinkling, the use of anti-smog guns for dust control and steps to promote public transport. Despite this, no improvement in air quality is visible.
The main causes of pollution include vehicular emissions and smoke from stubble burning in neighbouring states. According to estimates, the contribution of stubble burning may increase further in the coming days. The situation is also worsening because weather conditions are not favourable for wind speed and the dispersal of pollutants.
According to the air quality forecasting system, Delhi’s air may remain in the very poor category until November 6. After that, pollution is feared to reach severe levels. Experts have advised children, the elderly and people suffering from respiratory or heart-related illnesses to take special precautions.
Hashtags: #DelhiState #Delhi #AirPollution #AQI #GRAP #Jahangirpuri #WorstAir #287Days #AQI350 #GRAPStage2
