Following Diwali celebrations, Delhi’s air quality has significantly deteriorated, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) entering the ‘very poor’ category on Tuesday morning. The situation is expected to worsen, with forecasts predicting a further slide into the ‘severe’ category for Tuesday and Wednesday.
Data from the ITO region showed an AQI of 259, categorized as ‘poor’, on Tuesday morning. This follows a Diwali morning AQI of 335, which also falls within the ‘very poor’ range, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Evening readings on Diwali showed the AQI at 345, deepening concerns.
Neighboring areas are also experiencing compromised air quality. Faridabad reported a ‘moderate’ AQI of 182, while Ghaziabad (316), Noida (325), and Gurugram (295) are all in the ‘very poor’ or ‘poor’ categories. This surge in pollution poses serious health risks.
Health experts are issuing stark warnings about increased incidences of respiratory illnesses, strokes, and heart attacks. Short-term effects of pollution exposure include aggravated asthma, COPD, and breathing difficulties. Long-term exposure is linked to severe conditions like cardiovascular diseases, stroke, dementia, and mental health issues. Vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing conditions, are at heightened risk.
In response to the escalating air quality crisis, authorities have implemented Stage-II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This includes measures such as promoting public transport, optimizing travel routes, regular vehicle maintenance, avoiding dust-generating construction, and banning open burning of waste. A comprehensive 12-point action plan is now in effect across the National Capital Region (NCR), mandating daily road sweeping, enhanced dust control at construction sites, and ensuring uninterrupted power supply.