Just days before the festive lights of Diwali illuminate the capital, Delhi has been shrouded in a concerning haze as the city's air quality plummeted to the 'Very Poor' category. The Air Quality Index (AQI) surged past the 300 mark, triggering immediate action from environmental authorities.
Emergency Measures Activated
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has swiftly implemented Stage-II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the National Capital Region. This emergency protocol comes as monitoring stations across Delhi recorded consistently deteriorating air conditions, with several areas showing AQI readings well above 300.
What GRAP Stage-II Means for Delhi
The activated restrictions include:
- Enhanced dust control measures at construction sites
- Stricter enforcement of pollution norms for industries
- Increased frequency of mechanized cleaning of roads
- Regular water sprinkling to settle particulate matter
- Intensified checks on waste burning and pollution violations
Pre-Diwali Deterioration Raises Concerns
Environmental experts express particular concern about the timing of this air quality crisis. "The pre-Diwali deterioration sets a dangerous precedent," notes an environmental analyst. "When poor baseline air quality combines with festival-related emissions, we could be looking at severe plus category conditions in the coming days."
Health Advisory Issued
Medical professionals have begun issuing health warnings, particularly for vulnerable groups:
- Children and elderly should limit outdoor exposure
- People with respiratory conditions advised to carry medication
- Morning walks and outdoor exercises should be minimized
- Use of N95 masks recommended in heavily polluted areas
The situation remains fluid as authorities monitor weather patterns and pollution levels closely. With Diwali approaching, the effectiveness of these emergency measures will be crucial in determining whether Delhi can avoid descending into the 'Severe' air quality category during the festival period.
