Delhi Air Quality Drops To 344, Thick Layer Of Smog Engulfs City (image-unsplash)
The air quality in various parts of Delhi has deteriorated from ‘poor’ to ‘very poor’ categories over the past few days. The AQI or air quality index in the national capital has crossed the 300 mark in several areas. A thin layer of smog had engulfed the city.
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), a ‘poor’ quality AQI can cause breathing discomfort upon prolonged exposure. If the AQI rates are high, it will increase the risk of respiratory illness over extended periods.
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The first stage of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) restrictions took effect on October 15 due to worsening air quality and measures such as frequent cleaning of roads with water to reduce dust are already underway.
According to an official statement, 80 mobile anti-smog guns have been installed in the hotspot areas.
Factors that contribute to the worsening of the air quality include emissions from sources such as stubble and waste burning. Unfavourable weather conditions also prevent the effective dispersion of pollutants, leading to significant health concerns.
Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai has stated that the diesel buses coming from Uttar Pradesh are the major contributors to air pollution in Delhi.
Ashish Kumar Meena told news agency ANI, that pollution near the Akshardham region had intensified to the level of causing “choking in the throat, breathing issues and also irritation in the eyes.”
He added, “After Diwali, the pollution levels will increase more. The government needs to take steps to control the level of pollution. People who are burning substances in the fire should be imposed with fines. The ones who have respiratory problems must be suffering so much.”
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Delhi Chief Minister Atishi had earlier asked the residents of Delhi to avoid burning firecrackers and carpool as much as possible to help bring down the air quality levels.
