Delhi’s Desperate Struggle: Air Quality Dives into ‘Poor’ Category, GRAP-1amarvels a Wake-Up Call for the Nation

Delhi’s Air Quality Plunges into ‘Poor’ Category, Triggering Strict Emissions Curbs

Delhi’s air quality index, which had been lingering in the “moderate” zone for eight days, dropped to the “poor” category on Monday, prompting the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM) to implement Stage I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This decision was made after the city’s air quality index (AQI) recorded a significant increase, from 194 on Sunday to 206 on Monday.

The poor air quality is attributed to unfavourable meteorological conditions, including calm winds and mainly clear skies, said the CAQM in its order. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) also reported that the maximum temperature on Monday was 5 degrees Celsius above normal, at 36 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature was 15 degrees Celsius, 2 degrees below the season’s normal.

The IMD has forecasted “mainly clear skies” for the next few days, with strong surface winds expected to set in by Wednesday, which will lead to a projected 1-2 degree drop in temperatures, ranging between 34-38 degrees Celsius during the day and 16-18 degrees Celsius at night. According to the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), the air quality is expected to remain in the “moderate” category until Thursday, after which it may fluctuate between “moderate” and “poor”.

This sudden dip in air quality has resulted in a worst-case scenario for the city, with residents experiencing hazardous conditions. Public health experts warn that prolonged exposure to such conditions can lead to serious respiratory issues and other health problems. In response, the government has implemented strict emissions curbs, including restrictions on non-essential travel and industrial activities, to mitigate the impact of poor air quality on public health.

As Delhi continues to grapple with the effects of poor air quality, residents are advised to take necessary precautions to protect their health, including wearing masks outdoors, staying indoors, and avoiding physical activity. The city’s authorities are closely monitoring the situation and are working to implement measures to reduce pollution and improve air quality. With the situation expected to fluctuate over the next few days, residents are urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to safeguard their health.

Original Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/grap-1-back-as-delhis-aqi-slips-into-poor-category-9904212/
Category : Cities,Delhi
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Publish Date: 2025-03-25 05:11:00