Delhi’s air quality dropped to the “poor” category on Tuesday for the first time in over four months. The 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 211 at 4 pm, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The city last recorded “poor” air on June 11.
The main pollutants for the past three days have been ground-level ozone and PM10. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) activated Stage 1 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to control pollution.
What’s causing the rise
Ground-level ozone forms on warm and sunny days when nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOC) react in the air. These gases come mainly from vehicles, industries, and power plants. While ozone in the upper atmosphere protects against ultraviolet rays, ground-level ozone harms human health, aggravating asthma and lung diseases.
PM10 pollution, on the other hand, comes largely from road dust. Delhi Pollution Control Committee officials said the drying up of rain has increased dust levels. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said calm winds and clear skies are allowing pollutants to accumulate.
Forecasts from the Air Quality Early Warning System show that Delhi’s air is likely to remain “poor” for at least the next six days.
Long spell of clean air ends
Delhi enjoyed relatively clean air this year, especially in July, which had 29 days of “satisfactory” AQI. Officials credited heavy monsoon rain for washing away pollutants. With the onset of dry weather and falling temperatures, pollution levels are expected to rise again.
A senior Delhi government official said the delayed rice harvest in Punjab and Haryana could delay farm fires until November. “This year, Diwali might see better air compared to past years, as stubble burning will pick up later,” the official said.
Between September 15 and October 14, 552 farm fires were recorded across Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Delhi. Uttar Pradesh reported the highest number at 225, followed by Punjab with 165.
GRAP Stage 1 Measures
- Regular road sweeping and water sprinkling
- Strict ban on open burning of waste
- Use of anti-smog guns and dust suppressants
- Ban on coal and firewood in hotels and eateries
- Only electricity or clean fuel allowed for cooking in public places
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