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On October 24, the air quality in Delhi sharply declined, reaching a "very poor" level with an air quality index (AQI) of 340. This deterioration is especially notable as Diwali, the festival of lights, draws near. The data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB highlights this significant decline in air quality, which was recorded at 6:00 am on the said date. In the backdrop of this environmental concern, various locations throughout Delhi have similarly reported "very poor" air quality levels, ranging between 301 and 400 on the AQI scale.
The worsening air quality has prompted Lt. Governor VK Saxena to formally address Delhi's Chief Minister Atishi, emphasizing the severe repercussions of the pollution. He remarked in his letter, "We have yet again been branded as the most polluted city of the world, our residents especially the poor, apart from getting their lives shortened because of deadly air pollution, are staring at loss of livelihood." Saxena criticized the lack of tangible solutions to combat air pollution, noting that this issue has been persistent over the last two years of his tenure. He recounted his efforts to address the problem, including sending letters to the chief ministers of neighboring states and the previous chief minister of Delhi.
In response to the escalating pollution levels, the authorities have activated the second stage of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP Stage II). This action plan, which took effect following an AQI reading of 310 on October 21, introduces stringent measures to mitigate pollution sources. GRAP Stage II specifically bans the use of coal and firewood in hotels, restaurants, and outdoor eateries, as well as the operation of diesel generators, with exceptions for emergency and essential services. This move aims to curb the pollution exacerbated by fireworks, agricultural stubble burning, and vehicular emissions.
The AQI scale, as defined by the CPCB, classifies air quality from "good" (0-50) to "severe" (401-500). With Delhi's AQI nearing the severe category in some areas, the city's air quality could further decline. Locations such as ITO, Mandir Marg, Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, and others have already recorded very poor air quality. The risk is that the AQI may reach the "severe" category in areas where it edges close to 400, signaling even greater environmental and health hazards.
Delhi's struggle with air pollution is not new, but the situation intensifies around Diwali each year. The combination of firework displays, increased vehicular traffic, and crop residue burning in neighboring states contributes to a significant spike in pollution levels. This year, as the city confronts these challenges anew, the enforcement of GRAP Stage II reflects the urgent need for action against the factors fuelling the city's air pollution crisis.
In conclusion, Delhi faces a critical period as air quality levels plummet to "very poor" classifications, underscoring the environmental and health emergencies plaguing India's capital. The administration's efforts, including the implementation of GRAP Stage II, highlight the ongoing battle against pollution. However, with the Lt. Governor's call for more effective solutions, it's clear that a collaborative and comprehensive approach is necessary to combat the air quality crisis that recurrently affects the city and its inhabitants.
