Know the situation and hope for possible relief

Air pollution in Delhi has once again reached a critical level. According to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data, Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) was recorded at 409 at 4 pm on Sunday, which falls in the ‘severe’ category. The AQI was recorded at 393 (very poor) category with light fog in the morning.

The average AQI at 8 am on Saturday was 395, indicating a steady decline in Delhi’s air quality over the past few days.

AQI situation in major areas of Delhi

AQI levels were recorded beyond 400 at 28 centers in Delhi. These include:

• Major Locations: Alipore, Anand Vihar, Ashok Vihar, Bawana, Mathura Road, Burari Crossing, Dwarka Sector-8, ITO, Jahangirpuri, Nehru Nagar, North Campus, Okhla Phase-2, RKpuram, Shadipur, and Wazirpur.
• Level of pollutant particles:
  • PM 10: More than 225 micrograms per cubic metre.
  • PM 2.5: More than 354 micrograms per cubic metre.

According to CPCB standards, the level of PM 10 should be less than 100 and the level of PM 2.5 should be less than 60 micrograms per cubic meter, only then the air is considered safe for health.

Pollution increased since December 16

Air pollution has once again taken a serious form in Delhi since the night of 16 December. In view of the increasing pollution levels, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has implemented restrictions in the fourth phase of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) from December 16.

Meteorological Department’s forecast: hope for relief

The Meteorological Department has expressed the possibility of some relief from pollution.

• December 19: Light fog in the morning and partly cloudy sky during the day. Light rain is expected in some areas. There may be light fog in the evening and night.
• 24-25 December: Chance of smog and moderate fog. The meteorological department has issued a yellow alert. However, the sky will remain clear during the day.

December 26 to 28: Reduction in pollution expected

• 26 December: Light to moderate fog may occur in the morning.
• 27-28 December:
  • Chance of drizzle and light rain.
  • The wind speed will be 8-14 kilometers per hour, which can help in spreading the pollution particles.
  • Relief from pollution is expected on December 28.

Main reasons for increasing level of pollution

• Vehicle smoke and construction work.
• Slowing down of air flow due to cold weather.
• Effects of stubble burning from neighboring states.

Suggestions for Delhiites

• Go out only if necessary.
• Use N95 mask.
• Use air purifiers indoors.
• Avoid exercising outside in the morning and night.