Pollution havoc in Delhi: Dense smog and severe AQI raise health concerns
Pollution levels in Delhi have worsened. The AQI has been recorded in the 'hazardous' category with 406, leading to health problems. The government has taken stringent measures by implementing GRAP-III, but challenges for citizens remain.
INDC Network : New Delhi : Pollution wreaks havoc in Delhi: Dense smog and severe AQI raise health concerns
Delhi air quality alert: Smog increases, hazardous to health
The national capital Delhi remained engulfed in dense smog for the fourth consecutive day, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 406 at 8 am on Saturday, which falls in the 'severe' category. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), this level poses a serious health hazard, including respiratory problems, eye irritation and risk of heart diseases.
Status of major localities
Drone visuals taken at 6:45 am showed the area around AIIMS and Pragati Maidan covered in smog. ITO and Pragati Maidan recorded an AQI of 357, which falls in the 'very poor' category.
Visibility was extremely low in Sarai Kale Khan, Kalindi Kunj, and other areas with high-rise buildings. Toxic foam was also observed in the Yamuna river near Kalindi Kunj and Okhla Barrage, caused by phosphates formed from untreated industrial waste and detergents.
Residents' concerns
Local resident Pratik Jain, who came to India Gate for morning jogging, said, "I am feeling more tired while running, I have to stop frequently. I am coughing and have sore throat. This is because of pollution." AQI of 414 was recorded at India Gate.
The AQI in other areas, including Rajghat, Alipur (435), Bawana (438), Narela (449), Jahangirpuri (445), and Wazirpur (441), remained in the 'severe' category.
Government steps
The Delhi government has enforced a ban on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers under GRAP-III (Graded Response Action Plan). Violators of the order will be fined ₹20,000 under Section 194(1) of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.
Measures under GRAP III
- Mechanized cleaning of roads will be increased.
- Water sprinkling will be done in traffic areas.
- Measures to control dust will be adopted.
- Prohibition on transportation and storage of debris of demolished buildings.
- Restrictions on construction works and excavation.
GRAP has four phases:
- Stage I : 'Poor' (AQI 201-300)
- Stage II : 'Very poor' (AQI 301-400)
- Stage III : 'Severe' (AQI 401-450)
- Stage IV : 'Severe Plus' (AQI >450)
Current Status
This year GRAP-III was implemented late in November. In 2023, it was activated on November 2. The plan has been implemented in NCR with ongoing measures under all phases. All these measures are being taken to improve Delhi's poor air quality, but its negative impact on the health of residents continues.
What's Your Reaction?
