Delhi, Air Quality Deteriorates to ‘Very Poor’
Delhi and nearby regions started Diwali with a thick smog layer covering the sky, keeping the air quality index (AQI) in the “very poor” category despite efforts to combat pollution. Data from the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR) showed an AQI of 328 in Delhi on Diwali morning, firmly in the “very poor” range.
AQI readings vary from good (0-50) to severe-plus (above 450). Anand Vihar, one of the 40 monitoring stations in Delhi, recorded a severe AQI of 419. Other areas, including Alipur, Ashok Vihar, Aya Nagar, Dwarka, IGI Airport (T3), and Punjabi Bagh, also showed “very poor” air quality levels, impacting daily life and health.
Delhi’s Strict Anti-Pollution Measures on Diwali
In response, Delhi deployed 377 teams to enforce the firecracker ban citywide, according to Environment Minister Gopal Rai. Police officials have also directed each district’s deputy commissioners to create teams focused on ensuring that firecracker restrictions are upheld.
Delhi’s ongoing pollution crisis has led to the activation of stage two of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). Under stage two, there are additional restrictions on coal and firewood use, diesel generators, and dust control at construction sites. Daily mechanical sweeping, water sprinkling, increased traffic personnel, and heightened parking fees are among the measures aimed at reducing pollution. Additional bus and metro services have been added to provide convenient alternatives to private transport.
With air quality remaining hazardous, these combined efforts are crucial to curb pollution levels as the city navigates one of its most challenging times of the year for air quality.
Reference by NDTv
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