The air quality in Delhi-NCR plummeted to the 'very poor' category on Monday, as residents faced another hazy morning filled with smog, leading to complaints of burning eyes and breathing difficulties.
Capital's Air Quality Nearing Severe Levels
According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the daily average Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi remains persistently high, particularly during the morning hours. On Monday at 8 am, the capital's AQI was recorded at 391, placing it firmly in the 'very poor' range and teetering on the edge of the 'severe' category.
Visuals from areas around AIIMS Delhi showed the sky shrouded in a thick, toxic haze, with the local AQI being measured at 378.
Official Forecast and Curbs Decision
Forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) suggest that the overall air quality is likely to remain in the 'very poor' category for the coming days.
Despite the grim scenario, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) stated on Sunday that the air quality had shown a slight improvement. The panel noted that Delhi's hourly average AQI, which was 391 at 10 am, improved to 370 by 4 pm and further to 365 at 5 pm.
Consequently, the CAQM sub-committee decided against invoking stricter Stage 3 restrictions of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) for the time being. The ongoing measures under Stages 1 and 2 will continue to be enforced across the National Capital Region.
What Are GRAP Stage 3 Restrictions?
GRAP Stage III curbs are typically activated when the AQI enters the 'severe' zone, ranging from 401 to 450. The restrictions under this stage include:
- A ban on non-essential construction and demolition work.
- Classes for students up to grade V must shift to a hybrid mode of learning.
- A restriction on the use of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers in Delhi and adjoining NCR districts.
Air Quality in Neighbouring Cities
The pollution was not confined to Delhi alone. Neighbouring cities also reported concerning air quality levels. According to the CPCB, the AQI in Noida was 366 and in Greater Noida was 340, both in the 'very poor' category. In a slight contrast, Gurugram's AQI was recorded at 238, which falls under the 'poor' category.
The CAQM has affirmed that it is closely monitoring the situation and will review the air quality scenario as required.
