Delhi-NCR Air Quality Plummets to "Very Poor" Category

Strategic Insights -

Delhi-NCR's air quality has reached alarming levels, prompting the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to enforce Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). The city's Air Quality Index (AQI) crossed 300, raising health concerns for millions. The decision came after the GRAP Sub-Committee reviewed rising pollution levels, alongside forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), both warning of further deterioration in the coming days. Authorities have been directed to implement all Stage II measures immediately, in addition to Stage I actions already in place since October 14.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has enforced Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) due to Delhi-NCR's air quality plummeting to the "very poor" category.
  • The Air Quality Index (AQI) has crossed 300, raising health concerns for millions, and further deterioration is forecasted by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM).
  • Stage II of GRAP intensifies pollution control measures, including dust control, construction and demolition site inspections, public transport boosts, RWA responsibilities, and inter-state bus restrictions.
  • The city's winter pollution spike is attributed to unfavourable weather, vehicular emissions, paddy-straw burning, firecrackers, and other local pollutants.
  • Breathing in Delhi's polluted air is equivalent to the harmful effects of smoking approximately 10 cigarettes a day.
  • Prolonged exposure to Delhi's polluted air increases the risk of respiratory issues like asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as well as cardiovascular diseases.

Statistics:

  • Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) has crossed 300, with peak values reaching 302 by 7 pm.
  • Stage II of GRAP includes dust control measures such as daily mechanical or vacuum sweeping and water sprinkling on major roads.
  • Additional CNG and electric buses will be deployed, with increased metro frequency, and differential fare rates to encourage off-peak travel.
  • Resident welfare associations (RWAs) must provide electric heaters for staff to prevent biomass and solid waste burning.
  • Only CNG, electric, or BS-VI diesel buses can enter Delhi, with tourist buses with all-India permits exempt.

Sources:

  • The Times of India
  • India Meteorological Department (IMD)
  • Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM)
  • Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)