Delhi’s air quality plummeted into the ‘severe plus’ category on Thursday, recording an alarming 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 451, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The city’s air pollution crisis deepened as 32 out of 35 monitoring stations registered AQI levels in the severe plus range, signaling an urgent public health threat.
Alarming Pollution Levels
PM2.5, the primary pollutant, reached hazardous levels, with some areas reporting AQI readings as high as 470. These fine particulate matters, measuring 2.5 micrometers or less, are particularly dangerous as they can penetrate deep into the lungs, causing severe health issues.
GRAP Stage IV Measures in Effect
The national capital remains under Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which mandates the strictest anti-pollution measures. These include:
- A complete ban on construction activities.
- Prohibition of non-essential polluting trucks entering the city.
GRAP categorizes air quality into four stages:
- Stage I: Poor (AQI 201-300)
- Stage II: Very Poor (AQI 301-400)
- Stage III: Severe (AQI 401-450)
- Stage IV: Severe Plus (AQI above 450)
Meteorological Conditions
Adding to the pollution woes, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow alert for Friday, predicting very dense fog that could exacerbate visibility issues. Thursday’s weather saw a maximum temperature of 23°C, slightly above the season’s average, and a minimum of 5°C, three notches below normal.
Health Advisory
Experts warn residents to avoid outdoor activities, especially those with pre-existing respiratory conditions, children, and the elderly. Masks and air purifiers are recommended to mitigate health risks.
As Delhi struggles with hazardous pollution levels, calls for more robust long-term measures to tackle air quality issues grow louder.
Sources By Agencies
