Delhi is grappling with escalating air pollution, as over 14 areas reported an Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeding 400, indicative of ‘severe’ levels, on Sunday. Previously ‘very poor’ zones have now deteriorated into this critical category, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Among the few exceptions, Lodhi Road, Burari Crossing, and Sri Aurobindo Marg exhibited AQI levels around 350, denoting ‘very poor’ air quality.
Notably, pollution levels in specific areas were alarmingly high: Pusa recorded an AQI of 426, Shadipur 457, Punjabi Bagh 448, North Campus (Delhi University) 430, Mandir Marg 436, Jahangirpuri 467, and Sonia Vihar 442. The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) has categorized Delhi’s air quality into four stages: ‘poor’ (AQI 201-300), ‘very poor’ (AQI 301-400), ‘severe’ (AQI 401-450), and ‘severe plus’ (AQI >450).
In response to the deteriorating conditions, Stage III GRAP restrictions were implemented on November 15. Enforcement measures intensified, with traffic police and the transport department penalizing offenders. Around 550 challans were issued by the Delhi Traffic Police for breaches of the ban on BS III petrol and BS IV diesel vehicles. These violations resulted in fines exceeding Rs 1 crore on the first day of restrictions.
The primary contributor to Delhi’s pollution was identified as stubble burning, which accounted for 37% of the total pollution on Thursday, as per the Centre’s Decision Support System for Air Quality Management. Additionally, vehicular emissions contributed approximately 12% to the overall pollution levels. The situation underscores the urgent need for continued enforcement and robust policy measures to mitigate the ongoing air quality crisis in the national capital.
Original Story https://www.livemint.com/news/delhi-air-pollution-aqi-zooms-to-over-400-over-14-areas-record-severe-air-quality-11731806644629.html
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