Delhi air quality remains very poor as smog engulfs capital
The city's Air Quality Index has stayed in the very poor category for consecutive days, with several stations recording severe pollution levels.
Delhi's air quality remained in the 'very poor' category on Tuesday, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 350, according to ThePrint. A thick layer of smog has shrouded parts of the national capital, resulting in poor visibility and hazy skies. This marks the second straight day of 'very poor' air quality for the city.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported that 10 monitoring stations recorded 'severe' pollution levels. Jahangirpuri recorded the highest AQI at 462, followed by Punjabi Bagh at 445 and Rohini at 442. Other stations reporting AQI above 400 include DTU, Mundka, Alipur, Vivek Vihar, Narela, Bawana, IIT Delhi, and North Campus of Delhi University.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) enforced Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR on Monday. This follows the deterioration of air quality to the 'very poor' category. Under GRAP-2, authorities will intensify measures such as mechanical road sweeping, water sprinkling, and the deployment of anti-smog guns.
The Decision Support System (DSS) stated that transport emissions contributed 15.8 per cent to Delhi's pollution, while stubble burning accounted for 15.3 per cent. Other contributors included residential sources at 3.9 per cent and industries at 3 per cent. In the NCR, Gurugram recorded an AQI of 321, while Noida stood at 305, according to Times Now.
The Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi forecast that air quality is likely to remain in the 'very poor' category from November 4 to 6. The outlook for the next six days suggests levels may remain in the 'very poor' to 'severe' category.