Delhi's Air Quality Crisis Deepens
For the second day in a row, Delhi-NCR residents are breathing dangerously polluted air as the Air Quality Index remains firmly in the 'severe' category. The Central Pollution Control Board recorded an AQI of 414 on Wednesday morning, showing little improvement from Tuesday's seasonal high of 423.
Government Springs Into Action
In response to the deteriorating environmental conditions, the Central government has activated Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This emergency measure comes as the national capital has struggled with consistently poor air quality since Diwali celebrations concluded.
The city's air has primarily remained in either the 'poor' or 'very poor' categories over recent weeks, with occasional dips into the hazardous 'severe' zone that residents are currently experiencing. Compounding the pollution problem, Delhi has also been experiencing steadily dropping temperatures since last week, creating conditions that trap pollutants closer to the ground.
Long-term Pollution Pattern Emerges
The current air quality crisis follows a familiar seasonal pattern for Delhi, though the extended duration in the severe category has raised particular concerns among environmental experts and health professionals. The consistent poor air quality since the festival season indicates deeper, systemic issues that temporary measures may not adequately address.
Meteorological conditions, including reduced wind speed and lower temperatures, have contributed to the accumulation of pollutants. The implementation of GRAP Stage III includes several immediate measures aimed at reducing pollution sources and protecting public health during this critical period.
