Delhi’s Air Quality Remains ‘Severe’ as AQI Soars

Delhi's Air Quality Remains 'Severe' as AQI Soars

VoM News Desk | November 25, 2023 | 09:26 AM IST | Delhi | Follow on Google News

Delhi’s Air Quality Remains ‘Severe’ as AQI Soars

Delhi’s Air Quality Remains ‘Severe’ as AQI Soars

The national capital’s air quality continues to deteriorate, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) hovering in the ‘severe’ category. As per the latest readings from SAFAR-India, Delhi’s overall air quality remains alarmingly toxic.

Area-Wise AQI Readings Show Widespread Severity

Several areas in Delhi have recorded AQI in the ‘severe’ category. Notable readings include ITO at 388 (‘very poor’), RK Puram at 433 (‘severe’), Lodhi Road at 375, Dwarka at 439, and the Airport (Terminal-3) area at 423. Anand Vihar’s AQI was notably high at 456.

Health Concerns Among Residents

The toxic air quality has led to complaints of breathing difficulties and eye irritation among the city’s residents. The AQI classification indicates that readings above 400 pose severe health risks.

Following a brief improvement in air quality last week, the CAQM (Commission for Air Quality Management) has lifted some restrictions under GRAP 4. This includes allowing trucks and buses, except for BS-3 and BS-4 petrol and diesel vehicles, into the city and resuming construction activities.

Continued Enforcement of GRAP Stages 1 to 3 & Delhi Govt’s Response

Despite the lifting of GRAP 4 restrictions, the stages 1 to 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan remain in effect. These measures are part of the city’s efforts to mitigate pollution levels.

Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai highlighted the increasing pollution levels and the factors contributing to it, including vehicle emissions and biomass burning. The government has directed relevant organizations to monitor and control biomass burning, in addition to enforcing GRAP 3 rules to manage vehicle pollution.

VoM News Desk

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