Delhi air pollution: Delhi grapples with 'severe plus' air quality at 490 AQI; high-level meeting in progress
The deteriorating air quality in the national capital, Delhi, and its surrounding areas has prompted the invocation of Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) by the central government, effective from Sunday, November 5.
As per data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi is still shrouded in thick haze, and the air quality continues to be categorised as 'severe' on Monday. This marks the fourth consecutive day that Delhi has experienced 'severe' air quality. Most monitoring stations across the city recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of over 400 at 6 am, according to CPCB data.
#WATCH | Air quality across Delhi continues to be in the 'Severe' category as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
(Visuals from Kartavya Path, shot at 6:52 am today) pic.twitter.com/7ZKlaQa7UM — ANI (@ANI) November 6, 2023
Amid the worsening air quality conditions in Delhi, Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) was implemented in the national capital and the National Capital Region (NCR) on Sunday. This final stage of the anti-pollution plan is activated when the AQI crosses the 450 mark in Delhi, and its implementation typically occurs at least three days before this threshold is reached. Unfortunately, this proactive action could not be taken this time.
#WATCH | Delhi Fire Services sprinkle water in the Hotspot areas of the national capital to curb pollution. (05.11)
(Earlier Visuals from Bhikaji Cama Place) pic.twitter.com/IUUWaNQ8LV — ANI (@ANI) November 5, 2023
On Monday morning, the overall air quality in Delhi remained in the 'critical' category, according to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR)-India.
Over the past few days, pollution levels in Delhi have consistently remained in the 'critical' category, with AQI readings in the range of 400 at various locations in and around the city. SAFAR reported an overall average AQI of 471 on Monday morning.
In response to the severe air quality, the state government implemented a 'work from home' policy for 50% of government employees until further notice under the final stage of the pollution control plan.
Data from the Central Pollution Control Board revealed that Delhi's air quality index has surged by over 200 points since October 27. The worst air quality was recorded on November 3, with an AQI of 471, marking the highest level since November 12, 2021. Although air quality improved slightly due to better wind speed, a dense toxic haze continues to envelop the national capital for the sixth consecutive day.
Delhi's Environment Minister, Gopal Rai, addressed a letter to Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, urging that only CNG, electric, and BS VI-compliant vehicles be allowed in Delhi-NCR to address the worsening air quality, especially in anticipation of further deterioration during the Diwali festival.
Top Uttar Pradesh Environment Officer Expresses Dissatisfaction with Anti-Pollution Measures in Noida
A senior officer from the Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (EF&CC) department in Uttar Pradesh has expressed dissatisfaction with the insufficient anti-pollution measures in Noida and Greater Noida. Following review meetings with Noida Authority CEO Lokesh M, Greater Noida CEO Ravi Kumar NG, and District Magistrate Manish Kumer Verma, the top officer instructed local administration and authorities to intensify their efforts.
According to an official statement, the Additional Chief Secretary emphasized the need to immediately clear dust from the roads, dampen construction sites, and plant green grass on the roadside to mitigate pollution. The statement also called for extensive tree planting and a ban on grass cutting to combat deteriorating air quality.
- With inputs from agencies
