Delhi air quality reaches very poor category ahead of Diwali
The national capital recorded a very poor Air Quality Index as pollution levels worsened for the third consecutive day.
Thick smog covered Delhi on Wednesday as the city's air quality remained in the very poor category for the third straight day. According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the citywide Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 379 at 10 a.m., according to Mint.
The deterioration follows a period in October that was the cleanest in eight years due to heavy rain and favorable airflow. The average concentration of fine particulate matter reached 277, which is more than 18 times the 24-hour level recommended by the World Health Organization.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) enforced Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR on November 2. This follows Stage I measures that were in place since October 21. In the National Capital Region, Gurugram recorded an AQI of 321, while Noida remained in the very poor category at 305, reported Times Now.
The Decision Support System (DSS) stated that transport emissions contributed 15.8 per cent to pollution, while stubble burning accounted for 15.3 per cent. Other sources included residential sources at 3.9 per cent, industries at 3 per cent, and construction activities at 2.2 per cent.
Sunil Dahiya, founder and lead analyst at climate research firm Envirocatalysts, said that while there is a plan, the implementation is not up to the mark. He noted that measures do not cover the larger area around the capital and crop burning is adding to the pollution load.
The Air Quality Early Warning System forecast that pollution is likely to remain in the very poor to poor category until November 10.