Delhi residents are gasping for clean air as the capital city recorded its second most polluted October in the last five years, with air quality levels showing a dramatic deterioration compared to previous years.
Alarming Pollution Statistics
According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi's average Air Quality Index (AQI) for October 2023 reached a concerning 210, placing it in the 'poor' category. This represents a significant worsening from October 2022's AQI of 210 and marks the second worst October since 2019.
PM2.5 Levels Paint Grim Picture
The concentration of deadly PM2.5 particles – microscopic pollutants that can enter the bloodstream – averaged 98 micrograms per cubic metre throughout October. This is nearly double the safe limit of 60 micrograms per cubic metre prescribed by the CPCB and almost four times higher than the World Health Organization's safety threshold of 25 micrograms per cubic metre.
October's Pollution Trajectory
The month began with some optimism as the first week saw relatively better air quality. However, the situation deteriorated rapidly from October 20th onwards, with AQI levels consistently remaining in the 'poor' to 'very poor' categories. The last week of October was particularly harsh, with several monitoring stations reporting 'severe' air quality levels.
Expert Warnings for Winter Months
Environmental experts are expressing serious concerns about the upcoming winter season. The poor October performance, combined with expected meteorological conditions and ongoing pollution sources, suggests Delhi could face an extremely challenging pollution season ahead.
Major Contributing Factors
- Vehicle emissions continuing to be a primary pollution source
- Early instances of stubble burning in neighboring states
- Local construction and dust pollution
- Unfavorable meteorological conditions slowing pollutant dispersion
The deteriorating air quality situation raises serious health concerns for Delhi's 20 million residents, particularly children, elderly citizens, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. Doctors are already reporting increased cases of breathing difficulties and asthma attacks across the city's hospitals.
