New Delhi: Delhi is shrouded in thick smog. This has caused a significant drop in air quality, with hotspots like Anand Vihar, Mundka, Dwarka-Sector 8, Rohini Narela, and Jahangirpuri. The recorded AQI levels exceeding 300.
Major Concerns Regarding Air Quality in Delhi
- Severe Air Quality Levels: The AQI in areas like Anand Vihar reached alarming levels of 441, categorized as ‘severe,’ posing health risks.
- Deteriorating Conditions: Many parts of Delhi are experiencing ‘very poor’ and ‘severe’ air quality, negatively impacting public health.
- Dust Pollution Measures: The Delhi government has initiated dust control measures. It also includes the deployment of anti-smog guns and construction site inspections.
- Call for Community Action: Authorities urge residents to adopt pollution-reducing measures, such as carpooling and reporting violations through the Green Delhi app.
Dense Fog and Deteriorating Air Quality in Delhi
A thick layer of fog shrouded Delhi on Saturday, October 19, causing air quality to plummet to ‘severe’ levels. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Air Quality Index (AQI) in multiple areas of the national capital dropped sharply, indicating hazardous pollution levels.
Severe AQI Readings
The Anand Vihar area reported the highest AQI at 441, categorized as ‘severe’. Such levels of pollution can significantly affect healthy individuals and pose serious risks to those with existing health conditions.
Categorization of Air Quality
The AQI scale classifies air quality as follows
- Good (0-50)
- Satisfactory (51-100)
- Moderate (101-200)
- Poor (201-300)
- Very Poor (301-400)
- Severe (401-500)
Delhi Air Pollution: AQI closes in on ‘very poor’ zone; Govt identifies 13 hotspots, 80 anti’ smog guns to be installed.
At ITO, the AQI reached 230, indicating ‘poor’ air quality, while Sector 8 in Dwarka recorded an AQI of 342, remaining in the ‘very poor’ category.
Precautionary Measures Recommended
Authorities have urged residents to take precautions against the adverse effects of pollution. The Delhi government’s Public Works Department (PWD) has initiated measures to combat dust pollution, including water sprinkling in various areas.
Action Under Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-1)
These efforts are part of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-1) aimed at improving air quality and reducing particulate matter. Chief Minister Atishi has called on residents to adopt measures such as carpooling, avoiding firecrackers, and reporting pollution incidents via the Green Delhi app.
Inspection and Dust Control Initiatives
The Chief Minister’s Office announced that 99 teams will inspect construction sites to ensure compliance with dust control measures. The PWD will deploy 200 anti-smog guns. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) will use 30, the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) will use 14. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) will use 80.
Increased Traffic Management Efforts
To address traffic-related pollution, Delhi Police will increase personnel in busy locations, and Home Guards will be on standby if needed.
Improvements in Air Quality This Year
Chief Minister Atishi highlighted improvements in air quality, noting that Delhi has experienced 200 good AQI days from January 1 to October 12 this year. This progress is attributed to the collective efforts of Delhi residents and government initiatives aimed at pollution control.
Focus on Construction and Demolition Waste
The government aims to enforce dust management practices at both public and private construction sites. Special attention will be given to the removal of construction and demolition (C&D) waste, which contributes significantly to elevated PM 2.5 and PM 10 levels.
These initiatives represent a proactive approach to mitigating air pollution and protecting public health in Delhi as the city grapples with worsening air quality.
