On Tuesday, October 22, 2024, Delhi reportedly witnessed a major drop in the Air Quality Index (AQI). According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the air quality of the Capital city fell into the very poor category with an AQI of 240 recorded around 12 pm.

According to the reports, a thick layer of smog, indicating a high level of pollution has descended over several localities of New Delhi. These areas include Anand Vihar, Akshardham Temple, Ghazipur, Kalkaji, and Nehru Place among others.

CPCB Reports

As per Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the pollution level is expected to remain high, if the weather conditions remain unfavorable. Therefore, the CPCB has alerted the residents, especially those with respiratory conditions about the potential health impacts.

Citizens Observing Health Problems

Recently, citizens have highlighted some common health challenges related to breathing, especially during these months of October, November, and December. These are causing respiratory problems, cardiovascular disease, cancer, premature death and many more. Environmentally, it also affects the ecosystem, leading to climate change.

CPCB Implements GRAP-II

Meanwhile, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has taken a strategic move to deal with the pollution. It has implemented the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-II) after the pollution level dropped to the very poor category. The Daily average Air Quality Index reported was 310.

What is GRAP?

Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-II) is a set of Anti-air pollution measures to combat air pollution in Delhi and other surrounding areas. Under GRAP-II, several measures are enforced to reduce pollution levels, including enhancing public transport, road cleaning and water sprinkling, construction restrictions, and hosting public awareness campaigns.

The GRAP classifies the air quality in the four different stages:

• Stage 1 Poor (AQI: 201-300)
• Stage 2 Very Poor (AQI 301-400)
• Stage 3 Severe (AQI 401-450)
• Stage 4 Severe Plus (AQI>450)

Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change on AQI

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate change has indicated that Delhis daily average Air Quality Index (AQI) is expected to stay in very poor category in the upcoming days due to unfavorable weather conditions.

CAQM Addresses Pollution

The CAQMs (Commission for Air Quality Management) Sub Committee has decided that all the activities under Stage II of GRAP be implemented in NCR. This has been done in order to prevent air quality deterioration.

An 11-point action plan would also be taken to resolve the problem. It includes mechanical sweeping, water sprinkling on roads, stricter inspections at construction sites, and proper dust disposal.

The CAQM also urged locals to take following measures, such as:

• Use Public Transport
• Limit Using Personal Vehicle
• Replace Vehicle Air Filters regularly
• Avoid Dust-Generating Activities
• Avoid Burning of Gas and Biomass

Delhi Governments Bans Crackers in Festive Season

With regard to the rising pollution level, the Delhi-government has recently banned the sale, purchase and use of all types of firecrackers including the green crackers amid the festive season. This ban was announced on September 9, 2024 and was officially notified on October 14, 2024.