Delhi's Air Quality Deteriorates Ahead of Diwali

Strategic Insights -

Delhi's air quality has seen a drastic decline, with the air quality index crossing the 200-mark, barely a week before Diwali, as forecasted. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported a 24-hour average AQI of 211, categorizing it as "poor." Experts attribute the deterioration to a dip in wind speed and night temperature. Vehicular emissions, farm fires in neighboring states, and the impending bursting of firecrackers are expected to further exacerbate the situation.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Capital witnessed its first "poor" air quality reading since June 11, with the 24-hour average AQI standing at 211 at 4 PM on Tuesday.
  • The Central Pollution Control Board reported a significant increase in air pollution levels, with a 211 AQI reading, categorized as "poor."
  • Experts cite a dip in wind speed and night temperature as the primary reasons for the air quality deterioration.
  • The situation is likely to worsen around Diwali, in line with the annual phenomenon of air becoming toxic due to firecracker bursting.
  • Vehicular emissions and smoke from farm fires in neighboring states further compounded the problem.
  • Forecasts by the Centre's Air Quality Early Warning System (EWS) predict "very poor" AQI levels around or after Diwali.
  • The Delhi government implemented stage 1 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to mitigate pollution, focusing on cutting emissions from dust, vehicles, and industrial sources.
  • Restrictions under stage 1 of GRAP include intensified monitoring of open burning, dust suppression measures, and stricter enforcement of pollution control norms.

Statistics:

  • The 24-hour average AQI stood at 211, categorized as "poor," as reported by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
  • The Delhi government invoked stage 1 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) due to the deteriorating air quality, with an AQI beyond the set limit of 200.
  • Forecasts by the Centre's Air Quality Early Warning System (EWS) predict "very poor" AQI levels around or after Diwali.

Sources:

  • Hindustan Times
  • Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)