Delhi Chokes Again: Air Quality Declines to ‘Very Poor,’ Authorities Issue Yellow Alert
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The air quality in Delhi has deteriorated significantly. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the city's Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 341 at 6 am on Sunday, which is in the 'very poor' category. A yellow alert has been issued for dense fog on Sunday.
The air quality in Delhi remains worrisome as the AQI level is very high in many areas. It is 418 in Anand Vihar, 407 in Vivek Vihar and 401 in Wazirpur, 384 in Ashok Vihar, 372 in Jahangirpuri and 375 in Punjabi Bagh, all in the 'very poor' category. Patparganj recorded an AQI of 367, Bawana 338 and Rohini 367. While R.K. Puram recorded an AQI of 358 and Najafgarh recorded a low AQI of 282. The weather is changing in Delhi, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a yellow alert for moderate to dense fog on Sunday. Despite the fog, the temperature is expected to remain relatively mild. The maximum temperature in Delhi is likely to be 24 degrees Celsius and the minimum temperature is 9 degrees Celsius.
According to the IMD, the city's maximum temperature is moving beyond the freezing point of 22-26 degrees Celsius and the minimum 10-12 degrees Celsius, indicating the onset of mild weather. While mornings and nights are still chilly, daytime is showing a warming trend, with temperatures reaching 25 degrees Celsius. In response to rising pollution levels, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) activated stage 3 restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GARP) on January 29. These measures are aimed at curbing air pollution by imposing strict controls on construction activities, vehicular emissions, and other pollution sources. Delhi is grappling with the dual challenge of poor air quality and unstable weather. Delhi residents have been urged to take necessary precautions. This includes limiting outdoor activities, wearing masks, and using air purifiers to reduce health risks associated with deteriorating air quality.
