POLLUTION

Delhi Imposes GRAP II Pollution Curbs as Air Quality Deteriorates to 'Very Poor' on Friday

Friday, February 17: Despite winter having ended in the national capital and the mercury levels slowly rising back into the higher ranges associated with summer, Delhiites woke up to foggy and polluted conditions blanketing the city this morning.

Delhi clocked an AQI (air quality index) of 360 at 8 AM this morning. And while it had improved to 329 as of 11:30 AM today, it still remained firmly lodged in the 'very poor category'. The PM 2.5 and PM10 concentrations were at hazardous levels of 157 and 279 units.

Areas like Shadipur, NSIT Dwarka, Wazirpur and Jahangirpuri have recorded 'severe' AQIs above 400. Punjabi Bagh, Ashok Vihar, Rohini and Mundka have registered AQIs nearing 400.

For context, an AQI between 0 and 50 is considered good, 51 and 100 satisfactory, 101 and 200 moderate, 201 and 300 poor, 301 and 400 very poor, and 401 and 500 severe.

Delhi's AQI seems to be witnessing a downward trend over the last few days, with its air quality going from 'moderate' to 'poor' to 'very poor' since Wednesday. In view of the rapidly deteriorating situation, the Commission for Air Quality Management has reimposed the Stage II of GRAP with immediate effect.

"In an effort to ameliorate the overall AQI of Delhi-NCR and steer clear of further deterioration of air quality in the region, the Sub-Committee today has taken the call to invoke all actions as envisaged under Stage II of the GRAP - 'Very Poor' Air Quality (DELHI AQI ranging 301-400) with immediate effect in the entire NCR," the CAQM said.

Under Grap Stage II, the use of diesel generators as well as that of the use of coal and firewood in tandoors at hotels, restaurants, and open eateries, is banned.

Based on the dynamic model and meteorological forecast, the Sub-Committee predicted that the overall AQI of Delhi would remain 'very poor' in the coming days. According to SAFAR, Delhi's projected AQI for tomorrow is 340.

Prolonged exposure to poor air quality may lead to respiratory illnesses. And because the AQI is in the very poor category, sensitive groups are advised against indulging in outdoor physical activities, while asthmatics need to keep their medicines handy. Everyone else must avoid prolonged or heavy exertion and stop any activity level if they experience unusual coughing, chest discomfort, wheezing, breathing difficulty, or fatigue. Keeping your windows closed is recommended.

(With inputs from IANS)

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