National Capital wakes up to ‘poor’ air quality, AQI at 201, IMD warns…
Air quality in Delhi has worsened. Due to rising pollution levels, the Commission on Air Quality Management (CAQM) implemented Phase 1 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-1) in the National Capital Region and adjoining areas on Tuesday, October 14.
Delhi’s pollution levels are rising rapidly and no respite is expected. At 5:30 a.m. on Wednesday, October 15, the city’s air quality index (AQI) stood at 201, in the poor category. According to Delhi Early Warning System (EWS), when AQI was measured, the temperature was recorded as 19°C. This is a worrying development, especially since forecasts predict it will get worse in the coming days.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported that the 24-hour average AQI reading was 211 at 4 pm, with Anand Vihar retaining the top spot as the area with the worst air quality in Delhi. High AQI levels were also reported in other districts such as Wazirpur, Bawana, Mathura Road and Dwarka. The situation is not limited to Delhi; Air quality is also poor in neighboring areas like Noida, Ghaziabad and Faridabad.
GRAP-1 Implemented
Due to rising pollution levels, the Commission on Air Quality Management (CAQM) implemented Phase 1 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-1) in the National Capital Region and adjoining areas on Tuesday, October 14. This move aims to reduce the effects of pollution and prevent further deterioration of air quality.
Those living in areas with high AQI levels are advised to take precautions to minimize their exposure to toxic air. Health experts recommend wearing a mask, staying indoors, and avoiding outdoor activities like walking, jogging, or exercising. The presence of pollutants in the air can exacerbate respiratory problems and other health problems.
Delhi’s AQI to worsen in coming days
The Early Warning System (EWS) forecast predicts that Delhi AQI will worsen further, reaching 346 by the evening of October 17. This means some areas will likely have AQI well above 350 during this time. The forecast also shows that air quality will remain in the “poor” category in the coming days.
Some of the most polluted areas in Delhi are Anand Vihar, Wazirpur, Bawana, Mathura Road and Dwarka. High AQI levels have been reported in these regions, with the number exceeding 300 in some areas. Those living in these regions are advised to take the necessary precautions to protect their health.
Government action to prevent pollution
The Delhi government has taken steps to control pollution, including filing a written plea in the Supreme Court for an hour’s use of green firecrackers on Diwali. The government also emphasized that residents must comply with citizenship regulations under GRAP Phase 1, which includes steps such as preventing open burning, minimizing vehicle use and ensuring proper waste management.
