Shocking Plunge: Delhi’s Air Pollution Hits ‘Very Poor’ at 385 – Watch Smog Blanket the Capital
Delhi is grappling with alarming air pollution levels, with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reporting an air quality index (AQI) of 385 as of 8 a.m. on October 22. This figure places the city in the ‘very poor’ category, as smog blankets areas like Anand Vihar, Akshardham Temple, and Nehru Place. The CPCB has cautioned citizens, particularly those with respiratory issues, of significant health risks, warning that pollution levels could persist if adverse weather conditions continue.
To combat this decline in air quality, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has enacted Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi-NCR. This step was taken after the region’s AQI dropped to ‘very poor’ on October 21, with a daily average of 310. GRAP Stage II aims to prevent further environmental degradation by prohibiting the use of coal and firewood in eateries and banning diesel generator sets, except for emergencies. An 11-point action plan has also been initiated, featuring measures such as mechanical road sweeping, enhanced inspections of construction sites, and proper dust disposal at designated sites.
The CAQM is encouraging residents to opt for public transportation, limit personal vehicle use, and routinely change air filters in their vehicles. Additionally, activities that generate dust and the open burning of waste are advised against.
GRAP serves as a protocol of anti-pollution measures activated in Delhi and its vicinity, in response to varying stages of air quality severity: Stage I (‘Poor’, AQI 201-300), Stage II (‘Very Poor’, AQI 301-400), Stage III (‘Severe’, AQI 401-450), and Stage IV (‘Severe Plus’, AQI >450). The initiative reflects the urgent need for action to mitigate the adverse impacts of Delhi’s air pollution crisis.
Original Story https://www.livemint.com/news/india/delhi-air-pollution-anand-vihar-kalkaji-nehru-place-ghazipur-akshardham-aqi-very-poor-385-smog-capital-news-watch-videos-11729569152929.html
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