Delhi Air Pollution: AQI Plummets, 3 Stations Hit Severe Levels

Delhi Air pollution : The air quality in India’s capital city, Delhi, is once again making headlines as pollution levels soar, dragging several stations into the severe zone. As reported on November 21, 2023, the Air Quality Index (AQI) took a nosedive, standing at 348, a significant leap from the previous day’s reading of 301. This deterioration has prompted concern among residents and environmentalists alike, particularly with three stations now recording “severe” air quality.

Understanding the Deteriorating Air Quality

The decline in air quality is projected to persist in the “very poor” category until November 23, according to the Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi. Neighboring cities such as Noida, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, Greater Noida, and Gurgaon are also grappling with poor to very poor air conditions. The unsettling increase in pollution levels is primarily attributed to stubble burning practices in Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana.

Impact on Delhi’s Air and Population

In Delhi, Punjabi Bagh emerged as the most polluted location on Monday at 5 pm, recording an alarming AQI of 419, categorizing it within the “severe” band. Other areas like Bawana and Jahangirpuri followed closely behind, with AQI readings of 415 and 404, respectively. Wazirpur reached the extreme end of “very poor” with an AQI of 400.

Stubble Burning and Weather Conditions

Reports indicate that Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana reported 634, 102, and 38 stubble-burning cases, respectively, further exacerbating the air quality crisis in Delhi. The wind direction, predominantly north-westerly, has facilitated the transport of smoke into Delhi, compounding the issue. Analysis from the forecasting body under the Union Ministry of Earth Sciences revealed that farm fires contributed to 3.17% of Delhi’s PM2.5 in the morning, escalating to 14% by 4 pm.

Visibility and Weather Forecast

The city remained shrouded in a haze throughout the day, with Safdarjung experiencing visibility as low as 600 meters. Though there was a slight improvement in visibility at Palam to 2,500 meters by 4 pm, it remained relatively low at other stations. The Meteorological Department highlighted negligible wind speed early on Monday, which tends to lead to pollutant accumulation. However, a forecast of winds picking up to 16 kmph on Tuesday offers a glimmer of hope for improved air quality.

The battle against Delhi’s escalating pollution levels remains a pressing issue. While stubble burning and unfavourable weather conditions continue to challenge efforts, the anticipation of increased wind speeds brings a ray of optimism for Delhiites hoping for cleaner air in the coming days.

Stay tuned for further updates on Delhi’s air quality and measures being taken to combat this ongoing environmental crisis.