Delhi’s air quality significantly worsened on Monday, with several areas recording “severe” pollution levels. The Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeded the 400 mark, and the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted mist and smog conditions for the coming days.
Current Air Quality Situation
As of November 4, 2024, Delhi’s AQI has surpassed 400 in multiple locations, marking a critical shift into the “severe” category. This spike follows a rise in pollution levels noted on Sunday. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), AQI readings at 7 a.m. showed alarming figures, including:
- Anand Vihar: 433
- Wazirpur: 414
- Jahangirpuri: 413
- Rohini: 409
- Punjabi Bagh: 404
Many other parts of the capital have fallen into the “very poor” category. The sharp decline in air quality is primarily due to unfavorable weather conditions, such as calm winds and low temperatures, which are hindering the dispersal of pollutants.
Meteorological Forecast
The IMD has warned that the current meteorological conditions are likely to remain unfavorable for pollutant dispersion, with forecasts of mist or smog during the early hours from Monday to Wednesday. Wind speeds are expected to stay below 10 km/h, potentially worsening the pollution situation.
On Sunday, Delhi recorded an AQI of 382, which worsened from a previous reading of 316, indicating a steady decline in air quality.
Government Actions Against Pollution
In response to the rising pollution levels, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has implemented several measures as part of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). Key actions taken include:
- Closing 56 construction and demolition sites.
- Fining 597 sites that did not comply with pollution control norms between October 15 and October 31.
- Penalizing over 54,000 vehicles lacking valid pollution-under-control certificates.
- Impounding more than 3,900 vehicles exceeding the prescribed age limit.
Additionally, the CAQM is actively combating illegal waste dumping, conducting over 5,300 inspections, and taking necessary actions against offenders.
To manage road dust, the CAQM has deployed mechanical road-sweeping machines, water sprinklers, and anti-smog guns throughout the National Capital Region (NCR), using approximately 600 sprinklers and anti-smog guns daily.
Conclusion
As Delhi grapples with severe air pollution, residents are advised to stay informed and take precautions to protect their health. The government is working diligently to address the pollution crisis, but ongoing public cooperation is essential for achieving a cleaner environment.
