Persistent Air-Quality Challenges in Delhi: Trapped in the ‘Poor’ Category

Persistent Air-Quality Challenges in Delhi: Trapped in the 'Poor' Category

Asif Iqbal | October 27, 2023 | 10:42 AM IST | Climate & Environment, Delhi | Follow on Google News

Persistent Air-Quality Challenges in Delhi: Trapped in the ‘Poor’ Image/ANI

Delhi, India – Despite efforts to improve air quality, the national capital continues to grapple with ‘Poor’ air quality levels. On Friday morning, the Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 249, as per the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR)-India. The situation remains concerning as several areas in and around Delhi register high AQI values.Varied Air Quality Readings Across Delhi and NCRThe latest data from SAFAR indicates disparities in air quality across Delhi and its neighboring regions. While Delhi University recorded an AQI of 307, categorizing it as ‘Very Poor,’ the IIT area in New Delhi stood at 273, and Lodhi Road reported a somewhat better AQI of 218, all falling under the ‘Poor’ category. Noida recorded an AQI of 208, and Gurugram posted an AQI of 252, both continuing to grapple with ‘Poor’ air quality.

Meteorological Factors Impacting Delhi’s Air Quality

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts predominant surface winds likely from Northwest/Northeast directions in Delhi with a wind speed of 04-16 kmph. These conditions result in mainly clear skies and mist during the morning hours on October 27, Friday. However, the ongoing issue of stubble burning in parts of Punjab and Haryana remains a significant contributor to the deteriorating air quality in Delhi.

Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Phase 2 Implementation

In an attempt to combat the worsening pollution levels, Delhi has initiated the second phase of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). GRAP is a set of guidelines and measures designed to tackle air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR), encompassing Delhi and its surrounding areas. Under GRAP-2 restrictions, the government has imposed a ban on coal and wood-fired stoves, increased the frequency of CNG and electric buses, mandated regular road cleaning and water sprinkling, and enforced traffic management to prevent traffic jams, all in a bid to control pollution levels.

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Understanding the Air Quality Index and Its Implications

The Air Quality Index serves as a vital tool for communicating air quality status to the general public in an easily comprehensible manner. It comprises six distinct categories: Good, Satisfactory, Moderately Polluted, Poor, Very Poor, and Severe. Delhi’s current AQI at 249 categorizes it as ‘Poor,’ falling under

Stage 1 restrictions. For AQI levels between 301-400, the classification shifts to ‘Very Poor,’ constituting

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Asif Iqbal

Asif Iqbal is a seasoned news writer with a passion for delivering the latest updates to the public. Currently serving as the senior writer at VoM News, a prominent news outlet known for its comprehensive coverage of diverse topics, Asif has established himself as a reliable source of information. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling, he consistently provides readers with well-crafted articles that cover a wide range of news categories. His dedication to journalistic integrity and his commitment to staying ahead of the news curve make him an invaluable asset to Vom News, ensuring that readers are always well-informed on the issues that matter most. You can find his work and stay updated on current events by visiting vomnews.in.