The national capital's air quality took a sharp turn for the worse on Wednesday, with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) plunging into the 'Very Poor' category. The alarming data, recorded at 4 pm, revealed an average AQI of 386 for the city, indicating a significant deterioration in the air that millions of Delhiites breathe.
Widespread Severe Pollution Across Monitoring Stations
The situation was particularly dire at specific locations. Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) showed that a staggering 16 out of 40 monitoring stations across Delhi recorded air quality in the 'Severe' category. This signifies that pollution levels at these hotspots were critically high and posed a serious risk to public health. Among the worst-affected areas were stations at Anand Vihar, Bawana, Dwarka, and Jahangirpuri, where pollutant concentrations soared to hazardous levels.
Key Factors Behind the Deterioration
Experts from the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR) attributed the sudden spike in pollution to a combination of adverse meteorological conditions and local emissions. The primary culprits identified were calm winds and low ventilation, which prevented the dispersion of pollutants. These conditions essentially trapped harmful particulate matter close to the ground, leading to a rapid accumulation.
Furthermore, the contribution from stubble burning in neighbouring states, while not the dominant factor at this specific moment, continued to add to the pollutant load. Local sources of pollution, including vehicle emissions, construction dust, and industrial activities, remained significant contributors under the unfavourable weather pattern.
Health Implications and Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)
An AQI between 301 and 400 is classified as 'Very Poor', a level at which the air can cause respiratory illness upon prolonged exposure. When the index crosses 400 into the 'Severe' category, the health impact affects even healthy people and seriously impacts those with existing diseases. The current scenario has triggered immediate health advisories, especially for children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing heart or lung conditions.
With the AQI breaching the 'Very Poor' mark, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) is mandated to enforce measures under Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). These anti-pollution curbs typically include:
- Enhanced penalties for dust control violations at construction sites.
- Increased frequency of mechanised sweeping and water sprinkling on roads.
- Strict vigilance to prevent waste burning.
- Advisories to minimise private vehicle use and promote public transport.
The authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and if the AQI worsens further and sustains in the 'Severe' category, more stringent Stage III actions, such as a ban on certain construction activities and possible restrictions on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles, could be imposed.
Outlook and Public Advisory
The forecast from SAFAR suggests that the air quality is likely to remain in the 'Very Poor' to lower end of the 'Severe' category for the next few days, with little immediate relief expected from changing weather patterns. Residents have been advised to avoid outdoor physical activities, especially during the morning and late evening hours when pollution concentrations are typically higher. The use of N95 or P100 masks is recommended for those who must venture outside.
This early plunge into poor air quality, occurring in the post-monsoon period, sets a concerning precedent for the winter months, when conditions traditionally worsen. It underscores the urgent need for sustained and stringent action on both local and regional pollution sources to safeguard public health in the Delhi-NCR region.
